The BGC and Chile’s aPAL sign cooperation agreement to develop regulated online gambling framework in the South American nation, potentially launching by 2027.
Key Takeaways:
- BGC and aPAL partnership aims to create sustainable online gambling regulation in Chile
- Chile currently lacks formal regulation for online gambling despite having land-based casinos
- New licensing regime could be implemented as early as 2027
UK and Chilean Gambling Bodies Form Strategic Alliance
The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has entered into a Cooperation Agreement with Chile’s Agrupación de Plataformas de Apuesta en Línea (aPAL) to support the development of regulated online gambling in Chile. This partnership brings together the BGC, which represents approximately 90 percent of the UK’s regulated betting and gaming industry, with aPAL, an organization of international online betting operators advocating for modern gambling regulation in Chile since 2022.
Current Chilean Gambling Landscape
Chile presents an interesting regulatory situation where online gambling exists in a gray area—neither explicitly prohibited nor formally regulated. The country already maintains a regulated land-based casino sector, horseracing, and a lottery duopoly. A draft bill to regulate online operators has been under consideration for several years, and following recent elections, the new Chilean Government appears positioned to advance this legislation.
Framework and Timeline
Under the agreement, which will initially run for one year, the BGC and aPAL will share international experience and evidence from established markets. They will contribute to knowledge around regulatory models and engage with policymakers on designing a licensing framework that balances consumer protection with market viability. If successful, a licensing regime could be implemented as early as 2027.
This collaboration is part of the BGC International Committee’s broader program of engagement with partners in emerging betting and gaming jurisdictions worldwide.
Industry Perspectives
Carlos Baeza, Chilean lawyer and representative of aPAL, emphasized the opportunity at hand: “Chile has a real opportunity to introduce a modern, robust regulatory framework for online gambling that protects consumers, tackles illegal activity and delivers meaningful public benefits. At present, online gambling operates entirely outside any regulatory oversight, leaving players without safeguards and the state without visibility or control.
“By working with the BGC, we can draw on international best practice and ensure policymakers have access to high-quality evidence and experience from well-regulated markets.”
Grainne Hurst, Chief Executive of the Betting and Gaming Council, added: “The BGC is pleased to be working with aPAL at a pivotal moment for gambling reform in Chile. Well-designed regulation is essential to protect players, raise standards and drive out the harmful black market.
“The UK’s regulated market shows how robust licensing, high standards and effective oversight can support safer gambling while allowing a well-regulated industry to thrive. This agreement reflects our commitment to sharing that experience and supporting evidence-based policymaking internationally.
I remember the first time I saw Kai Tak, Hong Kong’s gambling city, I thought I was in a fairy tale. All the lights blinking, the music and the monumental buildings, what 9-year-old wouldn’t think they’ve come to a magical place? It was my father who brought me, dragging me along and when inside I was hit by the smell of frying duck. As soon as I hit 21 I returned to Kai Tak, A bit nervous to see if my mind had embellished the memory, but it hadn’t. Kai Tak was still a magical place. I decided I wanted to spend as much time as I could at this place, so I did.
