The gambling industry in Malawi is relatively underdeveloped, but there is growing interest from both local and international operators looking to tap into the market. As the demand for online and mobile betting grows, understanding the licensing requirements is crucial for any operator planning to enter Malawi’s gambling sector. This blog post explores the gambling licensing requirements in Malawi, the costs involved, and what services an operator will need before going live.
Gambling Licensing in Malawi
Currently, Malawi’s gambling industry is regulated by the Malawi Gaming Board, which oversees both land-based and online gambling. The regulatory framework for gambling is somewhat basic and primarily focuses on land-based casinos and betting outlets. However, with the increasing interest in online betting and crypto gambling, the government is expected to expand and refine its licensing laws in the near future.
While there is no specific licensing structure for online gambling yet, operators wishing to run a casino, betting site, or sportsbook must apply for a general business licence under the Gambling Act. This process includes thorough checks on the operator’s financial stability, business practices, and compliance with the country’s general regulatory framework.
Costs and Timeline for Obtaining a Licence
The costs for obtaining a gambling licence in Malawi are relatively low compared to more developed African markets like South Africa. Operators can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 for a business licence. The timeline for approval varies, but on average, it can take between 3 to 6 months, depending on the complexity of the application.
Key Services Required to Go Live
Before launching a gambling operation, there are several services that an operator must have in place:
- Payment Systems: Access to reliable and widely used payment systems, like Mpamba, is essential for smooth transactions, both for deposits and withdrawals.
- Software Providers: Online gaming platforms must partner with reliable software providers to ensure seamless operation of their services.
- Customer Support: Multilingual customer support (primarily in English and Chichewa) is crucial for providing assistance to players and resolving issues.