Chile Tightens Control Over Online Gambling Market

Chile’s Supreme Court has confirmed that, prior to the adoption of new legislation, virtually all forms of online gambling and betting are considered illegal unless explicitly authorized under existing law. In a recent ruling, the Third Constitutional Chamber ordered major internet service providers to block access to foreign betting and gaming platforms that do not hold official authorization in the country.

The Court emphasized that online gambling activities are permitted only for a limited group of operators, including Lotería de Concepción, Polla Chilena de Beneficencia, Teletrak, licensed casinos, and horse-racing venues. Unauthorized platforms, including international websites operating under .com domains, fall under mandatory access restrictions.

Oversight of compliance has been assigned to internet service providers and judicial authorities, which require regular reporting on the technical measures implemented to enforce blocking orders. The decision aims to protect the exclusive rights of national operators and curb the expansion of the unregulated market.

At the same time, Chile’s Congress continues to review a bill introducing comprehensive regulation of online betting. The proposed framework предусматривает a formal licensing system, taxation requirements, and enhanced consumer protection measures. Lawmakers expect the legislative process to be completed by 2026, enabling a transition from the current “grey market” environment to a fully regulated sector.

This approach reflects a broader trend across Latin America toward stricter and more transparent regulation of the digital gambling industry, with increased emphasis on legal compliance, regulatory oversight, and operator accountability.

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