**Fatshimetrie: Reform of the gambling sector in the DRC**
The gambling landscape in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is in upheaval. The Suminwa government, aware of the gaps and risks surrounding this sector, has embarked on an ambitious reform aimed at modernizing and regulating this industry.
At the 21st meeting of the Council of Ministers, held recently, the Minister of Finance, Doudou Fwamba Likunde, presented the progress of this crucial reform. In 2022, a diagnosis of the sector had clearly highlighted the flaws in the legal architecture in place, leaving the door open to illegal practices such as money laundering.
In order to remedy this situation, a ministerial decree was adopted to set up a unit dedicated to managing the reform of the gambling sector. This inclusive framework, bringing together the Ministry of Portfolio and the National Lottery Company, aims to ensure a participatory and comprehensive approach in conducting reforms.
But that’s not all. The government intends to accelerate the process by organizing an international conference on the regulation of the gambling sector and similar practices. Countries such as France, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal and Belgium have been selected to share their experiences and best practices in gaming regulation. This international collaboration opens the way to new perspectives and possibilities for the gambling sector in the DRC.
It is urgent to reform this sector, because the stakes are high. Indeed, current tax revenues from gambling in the DRC represent only a tiny part of the overall turnover. Illegal operators and the lack of effective controls have contributed to this unbalanced situation.
Nicolas Kazadi, former Minister of Finance, warns of the presence of 139 illegal or irregular operators in the gaming sector in the DRC. It highlights the urgent need for stricter regulation and a strengthened fight against money laundering.
This reform of the gambling sector in the DRC is a crucial step to clean up the industry, ensure player safety and increase tax revenues for the State. It paves the way for a more transparent and regulated future for this key sector of the Congolese economy.