WILLEMSTAD – Equatorial Guinea has officially entered the global online gambling industry with the introduction of its first-ever regulatory framework for digital gaming, betting, and casino operations—signaling growing competition for established licensing hubs like Curaçao. 

In a landmark move, the Government of Equatorial Guinea has granted a master licence to Mascott Capital Partners, a compliance-focused licence management company that will oversee the new digital gaming regime. This development positions Equatorial Guinea as the latest jurisdiction to offer international igaming licences, joining a competitive field that includes Curaçao, Malta, and the island of Anjouan. 

A New Player on the Global Stage 

The newly introduced Online Gaming, Online Betting and Online Casino Licensing Framework sets out comprehensive procedures for licence applications, compliance requirements, and financial oversight. It mandates operators to comply with anti-money laundering rules, verify user identities, report suspicious activity, and maintain reserves to protect player funds. Platforms must also clearly display responsible gambling measures. 

Mascott Capital Partners will serve as the gatekeeper for multinational operators seeking to enter the Equatorial Guinean market through a dedicated digital application platform. 

A Direct Competitor to Curaçao? 

Curaçao has long been known as one of the world’s most accessible and cost-effective igaming licensing hubs. However, recent regulatory changes on the island—including the phasing out of the master-sub licence model and increased compliance requirements under the new National Ordinance for Games of Chance (LOK)—have prompted global operators to explore alternative jurisdictions. 

Equatorial Guinea appears poised to capitalize on this shift. 

“This initiative represents a significant step forward in promoting Equatorial Guinea as a recognised jurisdiction for remote online gaming,” said Antonio-Pedro Oliveira Burupu, Minister for Tourism and Tourism Infrastructure. “It is also a significant step in diversifying Equatorial Guinea’s economy, attracting international investment to the digital space, and strengthening consumer confidence.” 

What It Means for Curaçao 

While Curaçao remains a central player in the offshore igaming industry, the emergence of new regulated jurisdictions like Equatorial Guinea could fragment the global market. Curaçao’s strength lies in its existing infrastructure, reputation, and years of experience—however, competition from newer entrants may prompt further enhancements to local regulatory frameworks, licensing procedures, and digital compliance. 

For now, Curaçao-based operators and regulators will be closely watching how Equatorial Guinea’s model is implemented and received by the international gaming community. 

As global scrutiny increases on online gambling operations, especially from European and North American regulators, more countries are formalizing their legal frameworks—potentially reshaping the offshore gaming landscape in which Curaçao has traditionally played a leading role.