Colombia as a benchmark for online gambling regulation (Colombia)

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1) What makes Colombia a "benchmark"

Colombia was one of the first in the region to fully regulate online games and bets: in 2016, Coljuegos approved the "juegos operados por internet" regulation, with technical parameters and the procedure for issuing concessions by the operator - this set the standard for Latin America.

The base of the system is Ley 643/2001: the state monopoly on games is implemented through concession agreements with private operators, under the control of Coljuegos. The law distributes modalities (localized games, "juegos novedosos," bets, etc.) and enshrines the rental nature of the industry.

2) Transparent frame: how licensing works

Single regulator. Coljuegos administers, licenses and controls the online marketplace; all norms and changes are published on its portal and in official acts.

Online modality (2016 +). The 2016 package of acts approved regulations and technical requirements for Internet games, including bets: Resolución 20161200013324/2016 and Resolución 25334/2016 (with subsequent amendments).

Public whitelists. The Coljuegos website maintains an open list of permitted online operators with brands and contracts (updated in 2024:15 operators confirmed).

3) Financial model and contribution to health care

The Colombian model not only protects players, but also generates funds for the health care system through exploitation rights. For online games, the standard is 15% of gross gaming income (GGR), directly directed to trust funds.

The effect is measurable: according to the regulator and the business press, in 2023, online operators transferred 317.977 million ≈ COP to the healthcare sector; in 2024, the Internet gaming segment continued to grow and increased transfers.

4) Technical requirements and consumer protection

Regulations for "online operated games" include cybersecurity, component certification, KYC/AML, responsible play mechanics, and mandatory reporting to Coljuegos. These criteria equalize the quality of service and reduce risks, which is considered a strength of the Colombian model.

5) Enforcement: clearing the "gray" segment

The system works not only on paper. Coljuegos is constantly fighting illegal sites: in September 2025, the regulator officially requested the blocking of Polymarket, a portal with crypto bets on electoral events that are not regulated in Colombia and are considered illegal. This confirms the high level of law enforcement and coordination with communication service providers.

6) Why these are "best practices" for LatAm

Early and clear start. The online frame has been operating since 2016 and is being systematically updated - against the background of countries in the region that are only approaching full-fledged legalization.

Publicity and verifiability. The player and partners always have an official "white list" and a set of transparent rules.

Social effect. A fixed deduction formula and reporting ensure stable healthcare revenues, which strengthens the public legitimacy of the market.

Practical memo

Players. Check the brand in the Coljuegos registry and use only permitted sites - this is both account protection and contribution to the health care system.

Operators. The path to the "white field" is the Coljuegos concession for online modality, technical integration and compliance with 15% GGR, KYC/AML and responsible play standards.

Colombia is a sustainable example of how early, clear and public regulation turns online gambling into a mature industry with clear rules and tangible public benefit. The combination of legal framework (Ley 643/2001), online regulations since 2016, a public register of operators and strict enforcement has secured the country's status as the standard of Latin America.