Coljuegos to Revolutionize Colombian Slot Machine Regulations in Upcoming Reforms

Coljuegos, the Colombian gambling regulator, is poised to initiate a comprehensive reform project in the coming year, targeting the ownership and operation of electronic slot machines (ESMs). This ambitious move is designed to combat the proliferation of unauthorized machines and to foster a legal and regulated gaming market in Colombia.

Colombia’s gambling landscape is set to undergo significant changes as Coljuegos announces plans for sweeping reforms in the electronic slot machine sector next year.

The regulator’s objective is clear: to eradicate the presence of approximately 50,000 unauthorized electronic slot machines, which currently represent a third of the entire electronic slots market in Colombia, with an estimated value of COP 945 billion (€220 million).

These reforms aim to transform illegal economies into legal ones, enhancing the integrity of the Colombian gaming industry. By requiring all venues with ESMs to certify with Coljuegos, the regulator seeks to establish a more equitable and trustworthy system for both operators and consumers.

Stay informed about these upcoming changes and their implications for the Colombian gambling sector. Whether you’re an operator, tech supplier, or consumer, understanding the new landscape will be crucial for navigating the regulated market.

As part of the reform, there will initially be a limit of 80 machines per operator. This number will be determined based on the size of the venue and the local population. In addition, there will be prize limits and specific rules for identifying technology suppliers. Coljuegos emphasizes that compliance with these conditions is essential to guarantee fairness and trust in the selection procedures.

The public comment period for these proposed changes is currently open and will run until December 14, offering stakeholders an opportunity to voice their opinions and concerns.

Furthermore, Coljuegos has been actively working on regulating gambling advertising in Colombia. In October, it detailed plans to oversee all gambling advertising, marketing, sponsorships, and other forms of commercial communication. If a Coljuegos-sponsored bill is approved by Congress, the new resolution will introduce advertising content guidelines, spending caps, and penalties for non-compliance. It will also require operators to implement mechanisms for detecting customers at risk of gambling harm and propose new payment rules, including the exclusive use of pre-paid credit cards for deposits.

These forthcoming reforms and regulations by Coljuegos mark a transformative phase in Colombia’s gambling industry, aiming to establish a more controlled, responsible, and legally compliant gaming environment.