The Gaming Board of Anjouan: An Overview of the Licensing Authority
The Gaming Board of Anjouan is the official regulatory body responsible for issuing and supervising online gambling licenses on the Autonomous Island of Anjouan, part of the Union of Comoros. It provides a legal framework for iGaming operators seeking a cost-effective and flexible entry into the global online casino market.
License Scope and Coverage
The Anjouan license is a unified iGaming license that allows operators to run a wide range of gambling services under one permit. Covered verticals include:
Online slots and table games
Sports betting and e-sports
Live casino platforms
Poker, bingo, and lotteries
Crypto gambling and play-to-earn formats
Both B2C (business-to-consumer) and B2B (business-to-business) licensing options are available, enabling not only casino operators but also software providers and white-label platforms to legally conduct business.
Licensing Process and Requirements
To obtain a license, applicants must either incorporate a local entity or appoint a representative in Anjouan. The application process involves providing:
Personal and corporate identification documents
Proof of financial solvency and professional background
Details on AML/KYC procedures, website terms, and operational structure
Once submitted, a complete application can typically be processed within three to six weeks, making it one of the faster licensing timelines in the industry.
Costs, Taxes, and Renewal
The Anjouan license is known for its affordable entry point, with fees generally lower than those in more established jurisdictions. Additional advantages include:
One-year license validity with a simple annual renewal process
No gross gaming revenue (GGR) tax
Minimal corporate taxation requirements
This financial structure makes Anjouan especially attractive for startups and crypto-based operators.
Compliance and Supervision
License holders must adhere to essential compliance measures, including:
Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures
Responsible gambling practices
System integrity and fair play standards
Operators are expected to appoint compliance officers and submit periodic internal reports. In addition, the regulator maintains a public register of licensed entities, helping increase transparency.
Concerns and Limitations
While the license is widely used, it does face scrutiny from parts of the industry. Concerns include:
Questions over legal enforceability outside the issuing jurisdiction
Limited player protection mechanisms
Weak or absent structures for handling player complaints
Operators and affiliates should carefully assess these factors when choosing Anjouan as their licensing base.
Licensed Companies: NovaForge Ltd and Stellar Ltd
Two companies currently operating under the authority of the Gaming Board of Anjouan are:
NovaForge Ltd
A registered entity using the Anjouan license to run a wide portfolio of online casino brands. The company specializes in crypto gambling, live games, and international market access.
Stellar Ltd
Another licensee operating several well-known casino platforms. The company emphasizes innovative game libraries, mobile-first design, and promotional features such as cashback and non-sticky welcome bonuses.
Both companies list their Anjouan license details and registration numbers transparently on their casino websites.
Summary Table
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Regulator | Gaming Board of Anjouan |
| Jurisdiction | Autonomous Island of Anjouan, Union of Comoros |
| License Type | Universal iGaming license (B2C & B2B) |
| Covered Services | Casino, sportsbook, crypto, live games, more |
| Application Time | Approx. 3–6 weeks |
| Fees & Taxes | Low fees, no GGR tax, minimal corporate taxes |
| Compliance | AML/KYC, fair play, responsible gaming |
| Renewal | Annual, straightforward process |
Conclusion
The Gaming Board of Anjouan offers a practical and low-cost alternative for operators entering or expanding within the online gambling market. With a wide scope of permitted services and streamlined setup, it appeals to both emerging and established brands. Companies like NovaForge Ltd and Stellar Ltd demonstrate how the Anjouan license can be successfully utilized to run international casino operations. However, as with any jurisdiction, careful due diligence is essential to weigh benefits against regulatory limitations.
