Timor-Leste Online Gaming Industry Update

Timor-Leste Online Gaming Industry Update: Government suspends licenses amid fraud concerns, with future market reopening tied to new gaming laws.

Background: Raid in Oecusse and UNODC Report

In late August 2025, as part of the Timor-Leste Online Gaming Industry Update, law enforcement authorities in RAEOA-Oecusse conducted a major operation targeting an alleged transnational scam and illegal gaming center, believed to be operating under a foreign company based in Oecusse at Seagull Resort. This followed increasing pressure from both local lawmakers and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), whose report identified Timor-Leste, especially Oecusse, as a growing hub for online fraud and criminal enterprises masquerading as “foreign investments.”

Public discourse intensified after footage and images of the raid circulated widely on social media, raising concerns over national security, investor screening, and the role of government agencies in granting licenses.

Government Action: Suspension of Online Gaming Licenses

In response, the Council of Ministers issued Resolution No. 54/2025 on 1 October 2025, which announced the immediate revocation of all online gaming and betting licenses, both domestic and offshore. The decision was framed as a precautionary measure while the government works on an amendment to the existing national gaming law.

This sweeping measure applies across the board and was not aimed at any specific operator. The official narrative centers on regulatory strengthening and re-alignment of the national gaming policy, in light of rising global concerns about cybercrime and misuse of gaming licenses.

Importantly, Resolution 54/2025 also states that the government intends to review and amend the existing gaming law, which leaves open the possibility of issuing new licenses or reopening the market at a later stage. However, this will depend entirely on the legislative process and future government decisions.

GRU Position: Not Linked to Oecusse, Still in Pre-Operational Phase

In light of the recent developments and market confusion, Golden River Universe (GRU) would like to clarify its position:

• GRU is not associated in any way with the company or operations under investigation in Seagull Resort, Oecusse, and was never granted access to that property.

• GRU had previously signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the RAEOA government in August 2024 to explore the development of an offshore support center. However, this plan was formally discontinued after the property was reallocated to another company by the state government.

• As of today, GRU has no business presence in Oecusse, no active operations, and has not been contacted or investigated by authorities in connection with any of the recent criminal cases.

• GRU is currently in preparation phase for an offshore gaming support center based in Dili, and has been in ongoing dialogue with the national regulator IGJ to clarify its operational model and legal compliance under Timor-Leste’s laws. No operations have commenced

What This Means for Industry Stakeholders

The developments in Timor-Leste reflect a transitional phase in the country's gaming industry. While the suspension of licenses is immediate, the door remains open for future regulated operations, pending amendments to the law.

For international stakeholders, this is a signal to monitor legal changes closely, evaluate local partnerships with caution, and ensure that any future engagement in Timor-Leste aligns with the upcoming regulatory framework.

GRU’s Commitment and Forward Plans

GRU fully respects the sovereign decision of the Government of Timor-Leste as set out in Resolution No. 54/2025. The company recognises the importance of strong compliance and transparent governance, and reaffirms its commitment to align with future legal and regulatory frameworks established by the Government.

GRU wishes to reassure the public and stakeholders that no players, partners, or employees have been affected, as the company has not conducted any active business in the gaming sector in Timor-Leste.

We thank the Government, the public, and our stakeholders for their attention and understanding. GRU remains open to contributing positively to the country’s future development once a revised legal framework has been enacted.

Read related article: Timor-Leste Grants First Offshore Gaming License