DR Congo introduces mandatory digital betting accounts with automatic 10% tax withholding

The Democratic Republic of Congo is implementing new regulations requiring all licensed sports bettors to maintain digital accounts with approved betting operators, enabling automatic tax collection and full government oversight of wagering activity.

The new rules introduce a major shift in how sports betting is managed in the country. Bettors using platforms such as Winner and Pari Foot must now create a registered digital account before placing any wagers. All bets and payouts will be processed through these accounts, allowing authorities to monitor activity in real time and ensure compliance with tax obligations.

A key component of the reform is the introduction of an automatic 10% tax deduction applied to all winnings. Operators are now legally required to withhold this tax before paying out any amount to the bettor, ensuring immediate revenue collection by the State and eliminating informal or undeclared winnings.

Officials argue that the system will improve transparency, combat tax evasion and strengthen oversight across the fast-growing betting market. Industry observers note that the move aligns DR Congo with other African jurisdictions that have recently adopted digital tracking systems for gambling transactions.

The transition to mandatory digital accounts is expected to continue in the coming months as operators upgrade their platforms and integrate new compliance tools. Bettors who fail to register will be unable to place wagers under the updated regulatory framework.