Gambling Licensing in Togo: What Operators Need to Know Before Going Live

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December 4, 2024
Gambling Licensing in Togo: What Operators Need to Know Before Going Live

As Togo continues to grow as a market for online gambling, operators looking to enter the country must understand the licensing requirements, costs, and services they need before launching. In this post, we’ll explore the gambling licensing process in Togo, its costs, the timeline for obtaining a licence, and the other services required for a smooth launch.

Gambling Licence Process in Togo

The process for obtaining a gambling licence in Togo is overseen by the National Gaming and Lottery Commission (CNL). While Togo’s gambling regulations are not as developed as in other African countries, they are evolving, with the government showing interest in creating more formal legal frameworks for online gambling. Operators wishing to launch an online gambling platform in Togo must submit an application to the CNL, providing detailed information about their business, operations, and financial capabilities.

Costs and Timeline to Obtain a Gambling Licence

The costs involved in obtaining a gambling licence in Togo are relatively modest when compared to other African countries. Depending on the type of gambling (sports betting, casino games, lotteries), the fees can range from $5,000 to $10,000. The application process typically takes between 4 to 6 months, depending on the thoroughness of the application and the time required for the CNL to process the information.

In comparison to other African countries, Togo’s licensing process is somewhat simpler and more affordable. For example, the process in Nigeria or South Africa can take longer and involve higher fees, making Togo a potentially more attractive option for new operators.

Services Needed Before Going Live

Once the gambling licence is obtained, operators will need several key services before launching their platforms:

  1. Payment Solutions: Integration with mobile money platforms like Togocel and Moov Togo is critical to ensuring smooth deposits and withdrawals for users.
  2. Gaming Software: Reliable software providers offering casino games, sports betting platforms, and lotteries are essential for any online gambling operation.
  3. Customer Support: Operators should set up customer support services in both French and English, as these are the main languages spoken in Togo.
  4. Banking Partnerships: While mobile money is the main payment method in Togo, partnerships with local banks can help cater to a broader audience.