Chilean operators create responsible iGaming association
Five online betting operators announced the creation of the Responsible iGaming Group, a new entity that seeks to promote and support the online gaming regulation process in Chile. Betano, Betsala, Estelarbet, Juegalo, and Novibet are initially part of the organization, which plans to work with the State to establish a regulatory framework that allows for the formalization of the activity and strengthens consumer protection.
The group argues that the lack of specific regulation does not eliminate the activity but can shift it towards operators who are not subject to oversight mechanisms, protection standards, or transparency obligations. In this regard, its executive director, Sandra Kemp, stated that online betting is a reality in the country and that its prohibition or the absence of rules does not make the activity disappear, but rather pushes it towards operators without standards, oversight, or accountability.
Among its main objectives, the new association mentions the promotion of responsible gambling, the protection of minors and vulnerable groups, cooperation with public bodies, transparency, the prevention of money laundering, and the fight against illegal online gambling. The entity also raises the need for a framework that creates competitive conditions for formal operators and, at the same time, a sustainable tax contribution, and highlighted the experience of regulated markets such as the United Kingdom, Spain, Canada, Brazil, Colombia, and Peru.
The creation of the group comes as the legislative debate on the regulation of online betting in Chile continues, particularly around bill 14.838-03. The organization believes that the country must accelerate the process and move towards a system that combines oversight, consumer protection, and clear conditions for operators. Kemp stated that the entity was created to demonstrate that there are operators committed to complying with rigorous standards, accepting effective supervision, and collaborating with authorities in building a sustainable and regulated market.
For the group, the industry's potential reinforces the need to define as soon as possible the rules under which the activity will operate. The organization assured that it will seek to participate in the debate with Congress, the Executive Branch, regulatory bodies, and civil society, with the aim of contributing to the construction of a regulated and sustainable market.
Tags: Responsible iGaming Association, Sandra Kemp, online gambling regulation in Chile, Bill 14.838-03