Timor-Leste Enters Global iGaming Market with First Offshore License Granted to GRU

Timor-Leste has made its official debut in the international iGaming sector with the issuance of its inaugural offshore gaming license, awarded to Golden River Universe Lda (GRU) under a national concession agreement. This development marks a pivotal step in the country’s ongoing efforts to diversify its economy and strengthen its footprint in the digital innovation space.

The concession was formally signed by Vice Prime Minister Francisco Kalbuadi Lay, who also serves as Minister Coordinator for Economic Affairs. It follows extensive collaboration between Timorese government officials and the Inspectorate General of Gaming (IGJ) to establish a comprehensive regulatory structure that meets international benchmarks. With this legal and oversight framework in place, the country aims to present itself as a reliable, competitive, and regulation-conscious destination for offshore gaming enterprises.

“This is more than just a license,” GRU CEO Datuk Harry Ng said. “It’s a platform for national growth and a signal that Timor-Leste is ready to engage with the global digital economy.”

The agreement places GRU under the supervision of the IGJ and requires adherence to principles of responsible governance, digital transparency, and regulatory compliance. Officials view this initiative as the beginning of a broader transformation in Timor-Leste’s economy—one that leverages technology to attract investment, generate employment, and boost tourism and service-related industries.

This milestone builds on earlier groundwork laid by GRU through its collaboration with the State Government of Oecusse, where plans are in motion to establish the TOGOS Hub, a centralized facility for offshore gaming operations. The TOGOS Hub is projected to bring modern infrastructure, skilled job opportunities, and foreign direct investment to the region.

At the same time, GRU’s parent company, Grand Dragon Lotaria (GDLotto), is undertaking a strategic shift by relocating several of its key operational units—including research and development and customer service departments—from existing hubs in Cambodia and the Philippines to Timor-Leste. GDLotto, which already operates under licenses in various jurisdictions such as Cambodia and Nigeria, aims to showcase Timor-Leste’s capability to support globally scaled digital operations.

By fLEXI tEAM