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Congo introduces bills to regulate gambling and establish regulatory authority

Congo introduces bills to regulate gambling and establish regulatory authority

Image source; Ministère du Budget, des Comptes Publics et du Portefeuille Public

The Republic of Congo has taken a significant step towards regulating its gambling sector by introducing two bills currently under review in Parliament. The bills aim to establish a comprehensive legislative framework for games of chance and gambling, as well as create a regulatory authority to oversee the industry.

On August 2, 2024, Mr. Ludovic Ngatsé, the Minister of Budget, Public Accounts and Public Portfolio, communicated the details of these bills to managers of establishments operating in the gambling sector.

In his speech, Minister Ngatsé emphasized the government's commitment to preserving the economic balance in the gambling sector while safeguarding the interests of customers and the state.

To ensure order and transparency, a special census of all operators established on Congolese territory will be conducted.

The minister urged operators to collaborate by providing accurate and sincere information, ensuring that establishments comply with employment regulations, social security contributions, and tax obligations.

An interministerial commission has been set up to register operators, including establishments involved in sports betting, casinos, virtual games, lotteries, raffles, slot machines, or jackpots. Minister Ngatsé stressed the importance of operators being loyal and legalistic towards the state.

The gambling sector in the country, which includes horse racing, sports betting establishments, casinos, and gaming houses, is currently facing a significant legal void.

This vacuum has the potential to lead to various abuses, such as the lack of protection for minors, tax evasion, disturbances of public order, and the risk of engaging in prohibited activities. The bills aim to address these issues and establish a comprehensive legislative framework to govern these activities effectively.

In addition to the bill regulating games of chance and gambling, a bill proposing the creation of a regulatory authority for games of chance and money has been introduced. This authority, designed as a public administrative institution operating under the supervision of the Minister responsible for the budget, will ensure the security of the gambling sector through the adoption of regulations.

Published August 17, 2024 by GamblingTalk