Who regulates the gaming industry in Tanzania?
The Gaming Board of Tanzania is the body that regulates all gaming activities in Tanzania. This institution was constituted following the Gaming Act CAP 41. The Board issues all gaming licenses and ensures compliance with the regulations.
What types of gaming are legal in Tanzania?
Legal forms of gaming in Tanzania include:
- Sports betting (Retail and Online)
- Online and land-based casinos
- Virtual games
- SMS lotteries
- Scratch cards
- Slot machine operations
What licenses are required to operate a gaming business in Tanzania?
Depending on the type of gaming, different licenses are necessary in running a gaming business.
- Casino License for table games and slot machines
- Online Casino License for remote gaming
- Sports Betting License for retail and online betting
- Service Provider License for companies offering support services to gaming operators
How much does it cost to obtain a gaming license in Tanzania?
The cost varies by license type. For example:
- Online Casino License: Application fee of TZS 1,000,000 and license fee of USD 40,000.
- Online Sports Betting License: Application fee of TZS 500,000 and license fee of USD 30,000.
What are the key eligibility criteria for obtaining a gaming license?
Applicants must:
- Have a clean criminal record.
- Show evidence of adequate funding for gaming operations.
- Possess suitable gaming premises.
- Comply with all provisions of the Gaming Act and Gaming Regulations.
What taxes are imposed on gaming operators in Tanzania?
Gaming operators in Tanzania are subject to various taxes:
- Sports Betting: 25% on Gross Gaming Revenue and 15% on net winnings.
- Casinos: 18% on Gross Gaming Revenue and 12% on net winnings.
- Virtual Games: 10% on Gross Gaming Revenue and 15% on net winnings.
How long does it take to get a gaming license?
The Gaming Board takes up to 30 days from the date of submission of an application to approve or disapprove a gaming license.
Are foreign companies allowed to invest in Tanzania’s gaming industry?
Yes, foreign countries can invest, but they must meet other conditions put in place; for example, there should be an investment capital of at least USD 500,000.
Can a company apply for multiple gaming licenses?
Companies may apply for multiple licenses depending on the types of gaming operations they plan to conduct. For instance, a company could hold both a Sports Betting License and an Online Casino License.
What is the process for renewing a gaming license in Tanzania?
In Tanzania, the gaming licenses are valid for one year and are supposed to be renewed annually by applying for a renewal and paying the corresponding renewal fee to the Gaming Board of Tanzania.
Potential changes to gambling regulations
While gambling is rising in Tanzania, there have been discussions about other forms of regulation. Concerns have arisen regarding the problem gambling process, which could see the government impose further regulations around issues of consumer protection. More than likely, this will involve amendments to the advertising regulations and tighter controls on age verification processes set for online gambling operators.
Also discussed are expanded opportunities in the market, granted more licenses to foreign operators, and the possible introduction of new forms of gambling, which could add to government revenues and put Tanzania among the most gambling-friendly countries in Africa.
Where can I get professional help about Tanzania’s gambling laws?
To get guidance on gambling regulations in Tanzania, seeking help from local law firms or regulatory law specialists is the best approach. The legal firms such as IMMMA Advocates and FB Attorneys are well aware of the regulatory framework and provide legal advice on the gambling sector for operators and individuals alike. Further insights and guidance concerning the emerging gaming scenario can be accessed on the website https://tz-bet.com.
To conclude
Tanzania is one of those fairly progressive African countries when dealing with gambling. It has decent licensing and a well-defined legal regime that is designed to support online gambling. It is the reason Tanzania gained the status of one of the leading countries when it comes to African gaming. At the same time, the government seems determined to stamp out gambling, while the market continues its expansion and entices local and international operators. With the industry still growing, it is paramount for both players and operators to keep abreast of the possible adjustment in regulation and to comply with the laws.