International Cooperation & Regulatory Recognition
The regulatory framework for internet gaming on Anjouan operates within the constitutional and legislative structure of the Autonomous Island of Anjouan, Union of the Comoros.
◆ Anjouan’s gaming regulatory framework is grounded in constitutional authority and reinforced by international trade membership, providing a defined legal basis for the cross-border supply of licensed gaming services.
Constitutional Basis
The regulatory authority of the Autonomous Island of Anjouan derives from the Constitution of the Union of the Comoros (2001), which establishes a federal structure granting autonomous islands legislative authority over defined internal matters, including economic and regulatory affairs.
The competent regulatory authority for offshore financial and gaming activities is the Anjouan Offshore Financial Authority (AOFA). Anjouan Licensing Services Inc. acts as the sole authorised licence administrator for the Anjouan Gaming Board.
Legislative Framework
The internet gaming regulatory framework is established under legislation adopted in 2005. The principal instruments include:
- Anjouan Computer Gaming Licensing Act 2005
- Anjouan Offshore Finance Authority Act 2005
- Anjouan International Business Companies Act 2005
- Anjouan Money Laundering (Prevention) Act 2005
These statutes establish the legal basis for the licensing of online gaming activities, regulatory supervision, anti-money laundering obligations, and corporate oversight. An independent legal review confirms that these laws remain valid and operative under Anjouan and Union of Comoros law.
International Recognition
On 21 August 2024, the Union of the Comoros acceded to the World Trade Organisation as its 165th member. As a constituent territory, Anjouan may rely on WTO provisions applicable to the cross-border supply of services between member states, subject to local prohibitions in receiving jurisdictions.
An independent legal opinion issued on 19 September 2024 by a law firm regulated in England and Wales and Quebec, Canada, confirms that the AOFA is the lawful regulatory authority for gaming in Anjouan and that Internet Gaming Licences issued under the Anjouan Computer Gaming Licensing Act 2005 are legally valid.
Regulatory Scope
Internet Gaming Licences are issued under Anjouan and Comoros law. Licences do not contain territorial restrictions under Anjouan law.
Important
Licence holders must comply with all applicable laws in the jurisdictions in which they operate. Anjouan Internet Gaming Licences do not override local prohibitions or regulatory requirements. Operators remain solely responsible for geo-blocking, market access controls, and local compliance.