Burundi has tightened financial requirements for gambling operators for the 2026/27 financial year. Under Joint Ministerial Order No. 760/540/319, signed on August 12, 2026, late gambling payments will trigger a 50% penalty, while arrears lasting more than one month can lead to licence suspension until the debt is cleared.
New rules tighten market oversight
The framework applies to sports betting, casinos, lotteries, prediction contests and other gambling activities.
Land-based operators must also connect gaming equipment to the state’s electronic monitoring system, which is used to track gambling activity and financial flows.
10% charges apply to deposits, withdrawals and profits
The order introduces a 10% charge on player deposits, 10% on withdrawals and 10% on gross gambling profit.
Tombolas and other promotional or occasional games are also subject to a 10% charge on the total prize value.
Operators receive monthly invoices from LONA and must pay them within the required deadline. Late payments trigger the 50% penalty.
If the outstanding amount remains unpaid for more than one month, the operator’s licence can be suspended.
Unclaimed winnings can go to the state
Funds left unclaimed for three months with no account activity must be transferred to the public treasury.
The new framework links financial compliance directly to the right to operate while giving Burundian authorities stronger oversight of gambling activity and sector revenues.
Source: Burundi Ministry of Finance
