Debunking the top myths about Anjouan gaming licenses

As the iGaming industry rapidly expands, various licensing jurisdictions have emerged to support businesses entering this lucrative market. One of these jurisdictions is Anjouan. It attracted considerable attention for its gaming licenses, but with this rise in interest comes an array of myths and misconceptions. In this article by iGaming consultant Ron Mendelson, Fast Offshore, he debunks the most common myths surrounding Anjouan gaming licenses and highlight the real advantages of choosing this jurisdiction.

Myth 1: Anjouan gaming licenses are not legitimate

A common belief is that Anjouan gaming licenses lack legitimacy or recognition within the global iGaming community. This misconception likely arises because Anjouan is relatively new compared to more established licensing jurisdictions like Malta or Curacao.

Reality: Anjouan gaming licenses are entirely legitimate. The licenses are issued by the Anjouan Gaming Commission, a government-sanctioned body regulating the online gambling sector. These licenses are recognised by industry stakeholders, including financial institutions, payment processors, and gaming software providers. The Anjouan government has created a robust regulatory framework that aligns with international standards. Operators holding Anjouan licenses can confidently operate under a fully legitimate, well-regulated system.

Myth 2: Anjouan licenses are a way to avoid regulation

Some believe that Anjouan gaming licenses are used as a loophole by operators looking to bypass stringent regulations, suggesting that Anjouan’s regulatory standards are lenient or nonexistent.

Reality: While Anjouan’s licensing process is indeed streamlined and cost-effective, it does not mean that the jurisdiction is free from regulation. Anjouan mandates that operators comply with Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations. This balanced regulatory approach ensures compliance while avoiding the bureaucratic hurdles common in more established jurisdictions.

Myth 3: Anjouan licenses are only suitable for small operators

There is a misconception that Anjouan’s gaming licenses are designed primarily for small or startup operators, making the jurisdiction unsuitable for larger, more established gaming companies.

Reality: While Anjouan’s licensing framework is particularly attractive to smaller operators due to its affordability, it is equally suitable for larger companies. The flexible licensing structure allows businesses of all sizes to scale their operations as needed. Larger operators often choose Anjouan because it provides a solid regulatory foundation with fewer obstacles for growth. The licensing framework is designed to accommodate both small startups and major enterprises, making it a versatile option for businesses at any stage of development.

Myth 4: Anjouan licenses are not recognized by payment processors

Another myth is that obtaining an Anjouan gaming license will restrict operators’ ability to partner with reputable payment processors, as financial institutions may not trust or recognise the jurisdiction.

Reality: Anjouan gaming licenses are recognised by numerous well-known payment processors and financial institutions. The Anjouan Gaming Commission has worked hard to establish the jurisdiction’s credibility within the global financial system. As a result, operators licensed in Anjouan have access to a broad range of payment processing options, including major credit card companies, e-wallets, and bank transfer services. Operators can freely choose payment processors that best align with their business needs and target markets without concern about the jurisdiction affecting those relationships.

Myth 5: The licensing process is "too good to be true"

Given how affordable and straightforward obtaining an Anjouan gaming license is, some suspect that the process must involve hidden risks, costs, or disadvantages.

Reality: The Anjouan gaming license process is transparent and accessible, with clear guidelines established by the Gaming Commission. There are no hidden drawbacks or pitfalls. To obtain a license, operators must undergo a thorough vetting process, including background checks and financial disclosures. They must also comply with KYC and AML regulations. The simplicity of the process stems from Anjouan’s goal to attract a wide range of operators while maintaining high regulatory standards. This accessibility does not compromise the integrity or legitimacy of the licenses.

Myth 6: Players won’t trust an Anjouan license

Some operators worry that players may not trust an Anjouan gaming license, which could negatively impact their platform’s credibility and ability to attract customers.

Reality: Player trust is built on the quality of the gaming experience, operator transparency, and customer service—not solely on the jurisdiction of the gaming license. Anjouan licenses are increasingly recognised in the iGaming community, and as long as operators run a transparent, fair, and responsible platform, players are unlikely to be concerned about the jurisdiction. Additionally, as Anjouan continues to establish its name in the gaming world, awareness and acceptance of the license will only increase. Operators can further enhance player trust by openly communicating their licensing status and demonstrating their commitment to safety and fairness.

Myth 7: Anjouan licenses offer no tax benefits

A final myth is that Anjouan licenses do not provide tax advantages, making them less attractive than licenses from other jurisdictions.

Reality: One of the most significant benefits of obtaining an Anjouan gaming license is the favourable tax environment. Anjouan offers a competitive tax regime with low or no taxes on gaming revenue, depending on how the operator’s business is structured. This allows companies to maximise profitability while keeping overhead costs low. The combination of tax benefits and the cost-effective licensing process makes Anjouan an attractive option for gaming companies of all sizes, from startups to established enterprises.

Conclusion

Anjouan has proven itself as a legitimate, cost-effective, and well-regulated jurisdiction for iGaming licenses. The myths surrounding Anjouan’s gaming licenses are often based on misunderstandings of the jurisdiction’s regulatory framework, financial benefits, and global recognition. As more operators learn the truth about Anjouan, it is becoming an increasingly popular choice for businesses looking to enter the iGaming market. Whether you are a small startup or a large enterprise, an Anjouan gaming license offers a credible, scalable solution to meet your business’s needs. To find out more information about licensing in Anjouan, contact Fast Offshore. We have been working in iGaming for decades and know the landscape inside out. Our professional team can help you with all your licensing and iGaming corporate needs.