Gabon’s gambling industry is entering a new phase of regulation as authorities tighten control over a sector with little oversight. Meeting in an extraordinary session in Akanda, the government, under the leadership of Interior Minister Herman Immongault, set an ultimatum that all gambling operators must integrate the E-TECH platform by October 1, 2025. Those who fail to comply risk strict sanctions, including the suspension of their activities.

The decision follows recent findings by the Gaming Commission, which revealed significant irregularities. The sector has been affected by uncontrolled financial flows, lack of traceability, and revenue losses for the state. Despite being an important contributor to Gabon’s economy, the industry has remained outside the scope of effective public regulation.

E-TECH as a Regulation Tool

The E-TECH platform was introduced following a Council of Ministers decision on August 12, 2025. Designed to aggregate and secure financial transactions, the platform is considered a cornerstone of the government’s reform agenda. By centralizing gambling-related payments, authorities increase transparency and prevent funds diversion. 

According to officials, most payment service providers have joined the system. However, some operators remain reluctant to comply, threatening the reform’s progress. Minister Immongault stressed that the state would no longer tolerate collaboration between gambling companies and payment services unrecognized by the authorities. He also warned that partnerships with operators lacking an official license would be automatically suspended.

Clear Ultimatum and Sanctions

The October 1 deadline signals the government’s determination to enforce compliance. Operators that fail to adopt the platform will face penalties ranging from fines to outright suspension of operations. For the authorities, the time for compromise has ended, and the sector must align with national standards.

“The games industry has the potential to generate substantial revenue and opportunities for our national budget,” said Minister Immongault. He emphasised that regularizing the sector is a financial necessity and governance issue.

Toward a Transparent and Profitable Future

This tightening of regulations reflects Gabon’s political will to transform games of chance into a reliable source of public income. By ensuring traceability and proper licensing, the government will curb the influence of the informal sector and create a framework for operators and the state to benefit.

The reforms also highlight Gabon’s strategy of modernising revenue collection with digital platforms. With the E-TECH system at its core, the government hopes to establish a sustainable model balancing economic growth with oversight. Whether operators adapt swiftly to these changes will determine the industry’s transition into this new era.