Colombian gaming regulator seeks to regulate 90,000 illegal machines

To address this situation, a resolution has been proposed with the aim of regularizing the situation of these machines and, consequently, combating illegality. Marco Emilio Hincapié, director of Coljuegos, indicated that the proposal includes the invitation to casino owners to request the necessary permits to operate legally. Furthermore, it is highlighted that the resources obtained from these operations can contribute significantly to the country's health needs.

«When resources are needed for health, the money is there and it is our responsibility to combat illegality. So the invitation is for them to request permits so they can practice, because in an operation in which televisions and computers were seized, their destiny, by law, is to destroy them," said the president of Coljuegos. In 2023 alone, $180 billion was transferred to health funds; $567 billion, to Adres; $54 billion, to the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation; and $42 billion, to the National Pension Fund of Territorial Entities. For a total of 845,465 million pesos contributed to health. With this regulation, specific guidelines are established for the operation of games of chance, especially with regard to the so-called electronic slot machines (METS).

«That resolution is going to give us great progress. We are ready to make it firm so that people can come forward and begin to legalize their processes and in this way combat this evasion," added President Hincapié.

The regulation
According to the second article, these provisions apply to legal entities at the national level that are currently operating gaming elements without due authorization from Coljuegos. In addition, they focus on guaranteeing that operators comply with the requirements established in Decree 1068 of 2015, including the certification of their quality as a legal entity.

The Resolution details the application process and minimum award of game elements by contract. It is highlighted that concessionaires that operate in premises whose main commercial activity differs from games of luck and chance must operate a minimum of eighty (80) electronic slot machines.

In the place where the famous swimming pool operated in Bogotá, the Police found an illegal casino). Compatible commercial or service activities, according to Article 5, cover those classified as gambling and betting activities, as well as recreational and leisure activities. A range of one (1) to four (4) game elements per authorized location is established, depending on the projected DANE census at the time of authorization. Article 7 establishes an implementation period of twelve (12) months, during which operators must operationally, technically and commercially adapt the operation of this new scheme. Coljuegos has the power to extend this period at the request of a party and with a reasoned justification.

The resolution also addresses the possession of game elements, specifying that the legal entity must prove ownership of the elements in the authorization request. In addition, the types of game elements, their technical requirements and special characteristics are detailed, in accordance with current regulations. In relation to prizes, Article 11 establishes limits and conditions, ensuring a minimum return of 82.5% for players. The treatment of returned, unredeemed credits is detailed, considering the value and prescription.

The final sections of the Resolution address aspects such as the identification of software and game element manufacturers, means of payment, validations of legal age, responsible advertising, and financial requirements, including the initial payment for the operation. Although the resolution is currently in the review stage, it is expected that, once approved, it will represent a significant step forward in the fight against illegality in the gambling sector.