Anjouan could be the next big thing in iGaming, offering affordable licenses to online gambling companies. [Image: Shutterstock.com]
New kid on the block
Most people wouldn’t even be able to point out Anjouan, also known as Nzwani, on a world map, but the small island is starting to receive increasing interest from online gaming operators seeking licences.
The east African island – which is part of the Union of the Comoros and home to about one million people – offers an attractive alternative for Curacao license holders put off by regulatory changes. Curacao has traditionally welcomed iGaming companies with open arms, but the Caribbean island is about to overhaul its licensing system, creating uncertainty for operators.
A cost-effective solution for businesses looking to set up their own iGaming services
Meanwhile, Anjouan has been offering online gaming licenses since its market was regulated in 2005. But only now, partly as a result of the situation in Curacao, is the island starting to get some serious attention. It is considered by many to be a cost-effective solution for businesses looking to create their own iGaming services, and industry events are full of discussions regarding the opportunities Anjouan can offer.
Attractive offer
Due to its membership in the World Trade Organization, the Anjouan government is able to set its own rules regulating international trade. This means that the iGaming license obtained on the island is recognized and respected by countries all over the world. It allows the operator to offer its services to players in many locations.
The cost of one of these licenses is also much lower than most other gambling centers. Take a look at the average price for B2C providers, including application fees and annual license fees combined:
Anjouan license – $17,000
Malta license – $32,000
Isle of Man license – $49,000
Unlike Malta and the Isle of Man, Anjouan only has one type of gambling license that covers all iGaming activities, such as online casino, sports betting and even eSports betting. It is available to both B2C and B2B businesses, allowing the licensee to operate under different brand names. As with licenses in other gambling centers, they must be renewed annually for additional costs.
Fall of Curaçao
Once a haven for gaming companies looking for a cheap and easy-to-obtain license, Curacao is now charting a new course. The island’s Finance Minister, Javier Silvania, is committed to renewing the legislation and ending what he called “abhorrent practices.”
There is still a lot of uncertainty about the details
The island has announced an overhaul of its gambling legislation in 2022, promising improved player protection, stricter anti-money laundering processes, and a change in the master licensing model. Although the changes are supposed to be imminent, there is still a lot of uncertainty around the details, such as the transition period for sub-license holders to move to a full licence.
This uncertainty raises concerns for many Curaçao licensees, especially since many of them operate through those sublicenses. One of its most notable licensees includes the crypto Casino Stake, which now operates worldwide and benefits from promotion from superstar rapper Drake and several well-known content creators.
Now, instead of Curacao, Anjouan may be a new starting point for online gaming companies looking to expand their global presence. Over the next 12 to 24 months, more members of the gaming industry will likely know exactly where this small island is on the map.
