In Chile, Santiago’s Court of Appeals has rejected a request to dismiss lawsuits initiated against the illegality of online operators. The cases against online betting platforms were initiated by various private and public entities including Chilean casinos, The Chilean tax service and the state’s lottery.

Sebastián Salazar Bastas, Estelarbet founder, initiated the lawsuit by accusing himself, believing that the court would find in his favour and overturn cases against offshore sites by ruling internet gambling as an unregulated activity rather than an illegal one in Chile.

The bad news for Bastas is that, according to gambling compliance platform Vixio, the court of appeal has ruled that “the non-existence of a crime cannot be forced”. Bastas has the right to appeal the decision.

Bill 035/2022

Chile made significant strides towards the launch of a regulated online gambling and sports betting marketplace. Earlier in August, stakeholders were informed that new articles are to be published to strengthen Bill 035/2022. Authorised in March, the Chilean government has instructed individual departments to work on the legislation and policy provisions the bill.

Currently, 15 articles of Bill 035/2022 have been ratified, including licencing requirements, the introduction of a sanctioning system and making the Chilean Casino Gaming Superintendence (SCJ) the licensing authority. In March 2023, SCJ declared offshore online gambling illegal.

Protection for operators and consumers

The regularization of the market is essential to protect not only operators but also consumers. The Chilean Association of Casinos is seriously concerned regarding consumer protection in relation to online betting platforms. Despite the rising number of complaints reaching the SJC, the challenges of identifying those responsible, in lieu of an adequate regulatory framework, has severely hindered the enforcement process.

SiGMA’s regional summit in Limassol, Cyprus

SiGMA Balkans/CIS is less than a week away. It will be held at the City of Dreams, Europe’s first integrated resort from the 04 – 07 September.

Industry operators will be able to connect with leading affiliates and two conference stages will feature a number of high-profile guest speakers. There will also be an expo floor, including the SiGMA Startup Village. So much more is happening in Limassol! Check out all the details here.