Gambling operators return to Rwandan market under new tax policy

Rwanda’s gambling regulator has reopened the licensing process for new and existing gambling operators following a year-long suspension aimed at reviewing the industry’s legal and regulatory structure.

The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) confirmed that it is accepting Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from prospective operators, including those targeting land-based casinos, online casinos, and sports betting. The deadline for submissions is set for September 30, 2025.

RDB said in a statement issued August 1 that the country is undergoing a “thorough review and redesign” of its gambling regulatory framework.

This move follows the 2024 adoption of a new national gambling policy and comes after a 2023 internal report identified issues in the sector, such as weak regulatory enforcement, underreporting of earnings, lack of digital oversight systems, and rising concerns over gambling addiction.

Licensing was initially suspended in June 2024 to allow for the policy review and consultation with stakeholders. During the suspension, both new applicants and those seeking license renewals were affected.

According to RDB, while new laws are still in development, existing laws will remain in effect. These include Law No. 58/2011 on gambling, the 2023 Ministerial Order on sanctions, and prior regulatory instruments.

“We want to ensure this industry grows in a responsible and transparent way,” RDB said in a public notice. “New rules are coming soon, but for now, we are working under the existing laws as we consult stakeholders.”

The regulator has also directed existing licensed operators to resume payment of their annual regulatory fees.

Operators will now be subject to a revised tax framework approved by Rwanda’s Parliament in May 2025. Under the new structure, gambling firms will be taxed at 40%, a substantial increase from the previous rate of 13%.

Rwanda currently has more than 30 registered gambling businesses, spanning retail betting shops, online platforms, and lottery operations. RDB is targeting new entrants to further develop the casino and interactive gaming segments.

The reopening of the licensing process is expected to be followed by additional reforms, including updating laws first enacted in 2011, with the goal of aligning them with current economic and digital realities. These changes aim to improve regulatory oversight, enhance consumer protection, and increase sector contributions to public revenue.

In its call for EOIs, RDB said shortlisted applicants will be invited to proceed with the full licensing application process following initial evaluations.