Following the recent SBC Summit Latinoamerica held in Miami, a compelling conversation emerged regarding the state of the online gaming market in Chile, particularly focusing on its regulatory challenges. A panel discussion highlighted the industry’s frustrations with the slow legislative progress surrounding online gaming. Cecilia Valdés, Executive President of the Chilean Association of Gaming Casinos (ACCJ), provided insightful commentary on the current situation, emphasizing the urgency for modern legislation to support the burgeoning sector.
Legislative Standstill
Valdés noted that the discourse surrounding the regulation of online gaming in Chile has notably stalled over the past year. Initially, there was optimism that the legislative process would accelerate, buoyed by the industry’s growth and the increasing presence of online gaming platforms. However, since March and April, discussions have come to a near halt due to various political and social contingencies facing the country.
“We understand legislative times, but this does not mean that we are going to sit back and do nothing,” she emphasized. The ACCJ is acutely aware that the current national budget discussions in Congress are consuming legislative attention, but Valdés insists that this should not inhibit simultaneous analyses of online gaming regulation.
The Importance of Regulation
For the gaming industry, regulatory clarity is not merely a preference but a necessity. Valdés argued that without a proper legal framework, Chile risks falling behind as online platforms continue to proliferate. “We do not want to rest on the need and urgency for Chile to advance in modern legislation for the online casino industry,” she stated, underlining the potential economic benefits that a regulated online gaming market could present.
As a representative of a significant sector of the national economy, the ACCJ has been actively advocating for the resumption of discussions with both Congress and the Executive Power to reignite legislative progress. The urgency for modern legislation is underscored by the visible operations of numerous international online gaming platforms, which are increasingly available to Chilean consumers without any legal oversight.
Political Engagement and Future Prospects
Despite the lack of recent political contact, Valdés remains hopeful for renewed dialogue as the year progresses. She acknowledged that legislative priorities often shift, especially given the upcoming elections in 2025, but firmly believes that the topic of online gaming cannot be sidelined indefinitely. “This is an issue that does not withstand that analysis,” she remarked, advocating for a more vigorous discussion in the coming year, with the hope of seeing tangible progress.
Valdés expressed optimism that by 2025, there will be a critical mass of political will to advance the regulatory framework. “Chile has legislation, and it is a very serious country. We cannot afford the luxury of putting off a bill for three years,” she asserted, challenging legislators to recognize the necessity of addressing the realities of the modern gaming landscape.
Conclusion
The current status of online gaming legislation in Chile is a complex web of political dynamics, industry needs, and public interest. As discussions remain stalled, the ACCJ continues to push for the dialogue necessary to advance regulatory frameworks that can support a robust online gaming market. Looking ahead, the hope is that 2025 will not just be a year of election but a turning point for the Chilean gaming industry, ensuring that it can operate within a modern, regulated, and economically beneficial legal framework.
As stakeholders remain engaged, the trajectory of online gaming legislation in Chile will likely shape not only the industry’s future but also its contribution to the national economy in a digital age.
