Comoros · Anjouan (AOFA) · Offshore licence

Anjouan forex licence: what it is and why recognition is the issue

Fast and cheap, with the same fundamental problem as Mwali: the Comoros central bank does not recognise island licences. Information only; we generally recommend other routes.

Updated

In short

The Anjouan Offshore Finance Authority (AOFA) on the Comoros island of Anjouan markets forex and brokerage licences issued within weeks. The Central Bank of the Comoros named the AOFA in its June 2022 warning that island approvals have no legal effect, republished in December 2025, and a 2025 press investigation examined Anjouan licensing.

Offshore licenceAfrica & Indian OceanOn request via partners

Key facts

RegulatorAnjouan Offshore Finance Authority (AOFA), island-level
LicenceMarketed as a forex / brokerage licence
Legal basisIsland-level legislation (validity disputed by the Union of the Comoros)
EntityAnjouan International Business Company
Typical timelineA few weeks
CapitalNo meaningful prudential capital regime identified
TaxMarketed as 0%
RecognitionNot recognised by the Central Bank of the Comoros
Client marketsNo recognised market access
EU passportNo
Our serviceOn request via partners
Speed
Reputation
SubstanceNone
Cost of ownershipVery low

Indicative information for comparison only, reviewed on the date shown. Requirements change and depend on your structure; confirm with the regulator and local counsel before deciding.

Overview

Anjouan (Nzwani) is another autonomous Comoros island whose offshore authority markets licences for brokerage, banking and gaming. Several look-alike websites exist, and the legal basis is disputed at Union level.

We profile Anjouan so founders can compare it honestly. In most cases we recommend a recognised licence or, for MT5 only, a company route such as Saint Lucia.

Substance and people

  • No local office or staff
  • Formed through private corporate service agents

Ongoing obligations

  • Annual renewal
  • No independent prudential supervision identified

Advantages

  • Very fast
  • Low cost
  • Minimal requirements

Drawbacks

  • Not recognised by the Union government or central bank
  • No client protection
  • High counterparty and reputational risk

Recent changes

The Central Bank of the Comoros named the Anjouan Offshore Finance Authority in its June 2022 warning, republished in December 2025. In December 2025 ABC News (Australia) published an investigation into the private operators behind Anjouan licensing, mainly in online gambling.

Frequently asked questions

Is Anjouan the same as Mwali?

No, they are different islands with different authorities, but both face the same recognition dispute.

Do you deliver Anjouan licences?

Only on request and after a written explanation of the risks; we usually recommend other routes.

Official sources

Primary sources we rely on. Rules change; always confirm current requirements with the authority.

Not sure which licence is right for you?

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