MetaQuotes Halts New MetaTrader Licenses for Comoros Brokers Amid Offshore Regulatory Overhaul

MetaQuotes has stopped issuing new MetaTrader licenses to brokers registered in the Union of the Comoros, disrupting a key offshore channel widely used by CFD and forex operators seeking low-cost market entry. The restriction, which took effect in February, follows an internal reassessment of regulatory exposure tied to licenses issued by island-level authorities such as the Mwali International Services Authority (MISA) and the Anjouan Offshore Finance Authority. Existing license holders remain operational for now, but new Comoros-based applicants are reportedly required to obtain authorization from an alternative jurisdiction to secure MetaTrader access. Check MISA registered brokers on BrokersView. 

Comoros, comprising Grande Comore, Anjouan, and Mohéli, has long attracted brokers due to minimal capital requirements, limited reporting obligations, and the absence of a unified national regulatory framework for retail trading firms. By the end of 2024, Mwali authorities recorded 258 registered brokers, including 119 entities incorporated directly on the island. The licensing structure enabled offshore brokers to access technology providers and payment services despite limited supervisory oversight.

Technology Access as Regulatory Leverage

MetaQuotes’ move effectively tightens market access by restricting platform infrastructure rather than directly targeting broker operations. Without MT4 or MT5, many offshore brokers face operational limitations, particularly those whose client acquisition and liquidity arrangements depend on MetaTrader ecosystems. Industry sources report a noticeable increase in attempts to sell Comoros-incorporated brokerages holding existing MT5 licenses following the freeze.

The decision aligns with broader compliance recalibration by MetaQuotes, which previously pressured brokers to sever relationships with proprietary trading firms servicing US clients through MT5 infrastructure.

Central Bank Push for Licensing Reform

The development coincides with efforts by the Central Bank of the Comoros to introduce a formal licensing regime. National authorities have publicly warned against unauthorized offshore banking and forex licensing activity and signaled that a structured regulatory framework is under development in cooperation with an external advisory partner. Until a centralized regime is implemented, promotion or use of unofficial licenses has been discouraged by the Ministry of Finance.

The freeze marks a significant shift in the offshore brokerage landscape, signaling increased scrutiny of lightly regulated jurisdictions and reinforcing the role of platform providers in shaping global compliance standards within the retail trading sector.