Timor-Leste Takes a Key Step in the Gaming Industry: The First Offshore Gaming License Officially Issued
The government of Timor-Leste has recently taken an important step in opening up the gaming industry by officially issuing the first offshore gaming operation license, marking the country's entry into the international gaming market. This move is seen as one of the key strategies of Timor-Leste to diversify its economy and attract foreign investment.
This island in the Malay Archipelago has authorized a subsidiary of the online lottery provider GD Lotto to conduct business.
Policy Background: Timor-Leste Explores the Legalization of Gambling
Timor-Leste has long relied on oil and natural gas revenues, but in recent years, the government has been actively seeking new economic growth points. In early 2025, the Timor-Leste government signed a cooperation agreement with Asia Pacific Strategic Investments, authorizing it to operate the first legal casino in the country, along with the construction of a five-star hotel and tourism facilities.
The issuance of this offshore gaming license further indicates that Timor-Leste is gradually easing restrictions on the gaming industry to stimulate tourism and international investment.
The first service provider, Golden River Universe (GRU), hopes to "make Timor-Leste the Malta of Asia—a trusted center for offshore gaming, compliance, and digital innovation." GRU will operate under the supervision of the Inspectorate General of Gaming in Timor-Leste.
The parent company, Grand Dragon Lotaria (commonly known as GD Lotto), is the largest online lottery operator in the country. The company has also obtained gaming licenses in Cambodia and Nigeria and claims to have players in over ten countries.
In light of recent developments, GD Lotto announced that it would relocate its research and development, customer service, and global support departments from Cambodia and the Philippines to Timor-Leste.
The Industry Brings Hope to One of Asia's Poorest Countries
Timor-Leste (also known as East Timor) was established in 2002, having been under Portuguese rule for 400 years.
In the mid-1970s, after the end of colonial rule, Indonesian troops invaded and ruled the territory for nearly a quarter of a century. Eventually, under the guidance of the United Nations, this young nation declared independence in 2002.
Today, Timor-Leste and Indonesia are working together. In October 2024, the leaders of the two countries signed an agreement "aimed at promoting economic development, social progress, and general welfare of both nations."
Furthermore, Indonesia supports Timor-Leste's accession to ASEAN. For Timor-Leste, one of the poorest countries in Asia, joining ASEAN would enhance its political influence and trade opportunities.
Meanwhile, according to Tatoli News Agency, GRU CEO Datuk Harry Ng stated that the emerging gaming industry is "a platform for national development and a signal that Timor-Leste is ready to participate in the global digital economy."
A Land-Based Casino is Also in the Works
According to related news, the island's government also plans to open the first casino.
In a document from February, legislators signed an agreement allowing Asia Pacific Strategic Investments Ltd. (APS) to develop a casino resort worth $60 million (£47.5 million/€57.2 million).
