DR: National self-exclusion, new responsible gambling rules
The Ministry of Finance of the Dominican Republic has taken a fundamental step towards regulatory maturity with the approval of Resolution No. 184-2026. This new regulation not only establishes an ethical standard for betting operations in the country but also launches the National Self-Exclusion System, a tool designed to mitigate the risks of problem gambling and protect citizens with problematic gambling behaviors. Signed by Minister Magín J. Díaz, the measure covers the entire spectrum of the industry, from physical casinos and lottery banks to iGaming platforms operating in the national territory.
A centralized registry for problem gambling prevention
The core of this reform is the National Self-Exclusion Registry, a centralized database that will be managed by the Directorate of Casinos and Gambling (DCJA). This system will allow any individual to voluntarily register to be blocked from all betting activity for a minimum period of six months. For this measure to be effective, the law obliges online operators and physical venues to integrate technological solutions that allow real-time blocking, ensuring that no registered person can access gambling platforms or make transactions at physical points of sale.
Beyond access blocking, the resolution imposes a series of operational obligations aimed at preventive monitoring. Companies must implement self-assessment tools for their customers, establish mandatory time and spending limits, and execute pauses in gaming activity when risk behaviors are detected. Likewise, all personnel and strategic partners of the operators are required to receive constant training on responsible gambling, ensuring that the service is provided with a public health approach and not merely commercial.
Advertising restrictions and control of commercial communication
In line with the most demanding international trends, the resolution significantly tightens the conditions for commercial communication in the sector. From now on, all advertising pieces must include health warnings and the contact number for the Ministry of Public Health's Mental Health Line. Furthermore, any advertising that associates economic success or personal well-being with chance, as well as any marketing strategy aimed at minors, is strictly prohibited.
The regulation also addresses the financial integrity of the bettor by strictly prohibiting operators from granting loans or any type of credit assistance to continue betting. While certain promotional bonuses are allowed, these will be subject to the limits set by the regulatory authority to avoid disproportionate incentives. This structure seeks to eradicate practices that have traditionally facilitated the over-indebtedness of vulnerable users.
Implementation and sanctioning framework under international standards
The regulation has come into force immediately after its publication, although licensed companies will have a period of six months to adapt their platforms and internal processes to the new requirements. The oversight of these measures will be in the hands of the DCJA, which will work on collecting statistics and data to periodically evaluate the effectiveness of prevention policies.
Non-compliance with these provisions will not be taken lightly, as sanctions will be governed under the framework of Law 155-17 against Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing. By linking responsible gambling with financial security regulations, the Dominican Republic elevates the category of these infractions, sending a clear message about the importance of transparency. This new framework positions the country as a regulated market that prioritizes integrity and citizen well-being, adapting to the challenges posed by the digitalization of entertainment.
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