Chile has taken a major step toward legalizing online betting after the Senate granted general approval to a bill regulating the sector.
On Aug. 15, the measure passed with 27 votes in favor, three against, and five abstentions, setting the stage for a detailed review by the Senate’s Economic and Finance Committees.
The bill introduces a licensing system for online betting platforms, alongside enforcement mechanisms against illegal operators. It also establishes player protection measures, with a particular focus on preventing minors from accessing gambling services.
Chilean government pushes for online betting regulation
Finance Minister Mario Marcel stressed the urgency of bringing the sector under control, noting its rapid growth and lack of oversight: “The government wants to regulate operations outside the law and prevent tax evasion and lack of oversight.” Planned measures include blocking unlicensed websites, banning bets from individuals who could influence sports results, and imposing criminal sanctions on unauthorized operators.
Official figures reveal that more than five million Chileans used online betting platforms in 2024, generating over $3.1 billion in untaxed revenue. The Ministry of Finance estimates that a regulated market could yield around $84 billion annually, with operators subject to a 20 percent tax, plus additional levies dedicated to responsible gambling and sports development.
If passed, the law would establish a National Policy on Responsible Betting, imposing stricter advertising limits and ensuring fair competition with regulated gambling activities such as lotteries and horse racing. Licensed platforms would be required to register as Chilean companies and operate under the supervision of an expanded regulator, the Superintendency of Casinos, Betting, and Games of Chance.
Finance Undersecretary Hedi Berner told Senators the bill “creates a National Responsible Gambling Policy, limits advertising, prohibits betting by those who influence sports results, and allocates part of the revenue to sports funding. It also establishes access restrictions and criminal sanctions for unauthorized platforms.”
Chile seeks to join LATAM’s growing regulated market
Chile’s push comes as Latin America experiences a surge in betting regulation. Brazil launched its regulated market in January, drawing global operator interest, while Colombia, Peru, Argentina, and Mexico already have established frameworks.
Chile, however, has lagged behind due to strict laws. In 2023, the country’s Supreme Court even declared sports betting a game of chance, effectively outlawing it and fueling an expanding grey market.
The bill will now undergo further scrutiny and amendments by Senate committees, with proposals due by Sept. 29. If enacted, it would mark a turning point for Chile’s gambling landscape, transforming an unregulated, high-demand sector into a licensed, taxable, and accountable industry.
