UK BGC to support Chile’s online gambling regulation

The UK trade association Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) on January 20 signed a one-year partnership with the Chilean online betting association aPAL to support the development of a regulatory framework and a licensing regime in Chile’s currently unregulated market.

Agreement between BGC and aPAL

The agreement brings together BGC, which represents around 90% of the UK’s regulated betting and gaming market, and aPAL, an association of international online operators active in Chile since 2022.

The parties agreed to cooperate to support the introduction of a modern online gambling regulatory system in Chile.

Status of the online gambling market in Chile

Online gambling in Chile is currently not prohibited but remains unregulated.

The country already has a land-based casino sector, horseracing, and a lottery duopoly, while a bill to regulate online operators has been under discussion for several years.

Legislative process

The draft bill on online gambling regulation has passed review by Senate committees.

Following recent elections, Chile’s new government is now in a position to advance the legislation.

Licensing and timeline

The introduction of a licensing regime for online operators is expected to begin in 2027.

Cooperation format

Experience sharing and engagement with regulators

Under the agreement, the organisations will share international experience and analytical data.

The cooperation also includes engagement with public authorities and stakeholders in the development of a licensing system.

Agreement duration

The agreement is set for a one-year term and is implemented as part of BGC’s international cooperation programme.