Investigative Journalist Raises Concern Over 600 New Gaming Licenses From Small Island

_{The small Island of Anjouan is under scrutiny for issuing 600 licenses. (Image: Michael Schmitt)}  

In our second look at online voices, we trawled the Internet and came across Michael Schmitt an Investigative Journalist with Corporate Expertise who writes extensively on the gambling industry. His latest article scrutinises the developments on the small island of Anjouan, a volcanic island in the Indian Ocean, part of the Comoro Islands, an archipelago off the coast of East Africa.

Schmitt writes extensively on the gambling industry including land based and online casinos 

Schmitt Scrutinises Events on Anjouan

Schmitt's article expresses significant concern about the recent issuance of over 600 gaming licenses by Anjouan. He draws parallels to the past regulatory chaos associated with the Curacao Gaming Authority, warning that this wave of licenses might lead to similar risks.

There are attractive features of these licenses, such as fast-track approvals, low fees, and minimal scrutiny. Schmitt suggests that while some companies may utilise these licenses for legitimate purposes, many others could exploit these opportunities in ways that endanger regulatory integrity.

AML and KYC Concerns

As an investigative journalist, he expresses his concern and cautions in the area of anti-money laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations.

Schmitt argues that the rapid licensing of so many operators raises substantial concerns around consumer protection, financial oversight, and tax compliance, predicting that issues will inevitably arise as the market adjusts to these new players.

Influencer Calls for Vigilance and Rigid Checks

As an influencer Schmitt’s call for vigilance and rigid checks cannot be ignored. He is in effect encouraging others in the regulatory and gaming spheres to pay close attention to these developments.

Commentators on his article also warn of the dangers of self-regulation suggesting that that unchecked licenses could ultimately undermine the credibility of foreign licenses, reinforcing their apprehensive outlook. Schmitt could be right to share his concerns.

This isn't just another paper jurisdiction. This is a full-scale floodgate swinging open. warns Schmitt.

“600 more casino licenses just landed... and I'm losing sleep over it. Have we learnt nothing from the last wave of unregulated chaos with the Curacao Gaming Authority?”

AML Expert Concerned Over Potential Coups on Anjouan

Another expert voice, that of John Christmas, AML expert and author of award-winning thriller 'KGB Banker’ said: “I'm concerned about Anjouan as a jurisdiction because of historical instability since they've had more than 20 coups since their independence in 1975.

Players should be wondering whether Anjouan authorities have the manpower and experience to regulate over 600 casinos properly.

“Investors should be aware that a license from Anjouan does not give operators the right to serve players in the United States, United Kingdom, or European Union.”

A statement on the Anjouan website reads: "Since the transition of licensing administration to Anjouan Licensing Services Inc. in May 2023, the Anjouan Gaming Licence has maintained its reputation for streamlined processes. As of April 3, 2025, the Anjouan Gaming Board and the Anjouan Offshore Finance Authority (AOFA) have introduced minor updates to enhance compliance with international standards.

"These include stricter due diligence checks for key personnel and improved guidelines for responsible gaming tools, ensuring the licence remains credible while staying accessible. The processing time remains impressively fast, with approvals still averaging 4-6 weeks, making it one of the quickest options available."