Chile is intensifying its efforts to eliminate illegal gambling activities. On September 19, 2025, the Chamber of Deputies Citizen Security Commission approved a groundbreaking bill designed to enforce severe penalties on those involved in unauthorized games of chance. This legislative move aims to impose fines and imprisonment of up to five years for individuals and organizations engaged in illegal gambling activities.
This initiative is part of a broader legislative discussion surrounding the Economic Intelligence Subsystem bill. Within this framework, lawmakers have introduced provisions that stipulate criminal prosecution for those organizing games of chance not legally recognized as casinos. This step marks a significant shift in Chile’s approach to curbing illegal gambling by integrating administrative sanctions with criminal consequences.
Amendments to the Municipal Revenue Law have also been authorized by the commission. Under the revised Article 25, any business conducting gambling operations under a different commercial license will face a fine equaling 300% of the license’s value and the revocation of said license. This legislative adjustment effectively mandates the closure of such businesses, signaling a firm stance against unauthorized gambling.
However, a notable exemption is granted to establishments operating solely as licensed intermediaries. These entities, functioning as agents or commission-based operators for licensed gambling services like the Polla or Lotería, will adhere to their respective organic laws and are exempt from the newly proposed penalties.
A focal point of the reform addresses casino-style gambling machines. Individuals or entities installing or maintaining slot machines or similar devices without proper licensing from the Superintendence of Casinos (SCJ) will face serious criminal charges. The penalties range from medium to the highest levels of “minor imprisonment,” potentially resulting in up to five years of incarceration. Additionally, offenders are liable to pay fines ranging from 11 to 200 UTM, equivalent to approximately CLP 761,915 to CLP 13,853,000 (USD 850 to USD 15,500). If the illegal profits exceed these amounts, fines will be adjusted to match or double the illicit earnings.
Accountability extends beyond the company to individuals directly involved in management or decision-making processes. Those who facilitated the crimes or obstructed preventative measures will be charged as principal offenders, reinforcing the comprehensive nature of the legal framework.
Deputy Finance Secretary Heidi Berner highlighted that discussions regarding the prosecution of illegal gambling have reached a consensus. The current debate focuses on the objectives and composition of the newly suggested Economic Intelligence Subsystem. Berner commended the cooperative spirit that enabled progress, noting that the continuous dialogue among deputies and their advisors has facilitated effective tracking of organized crime’s financial trails.
This latest legislative approval is part of a broader strategy to address gambling irregularities. Parliament had previously established a clear legal framework for classifying gambling machines, effectively closing loopholes exploited by operators who misclassified them as “skill-based” machines. Furthermore, the SCJ now possesses enhanced authority to evaluate machines at the request of municipalities or the National Customs Service, reducing reliance on costly private expert evaluations when challenging allegations of illegal operations.
Chile’s new legislative measures represent a decisive step in the nation’s fight against illegal gambling and the enhancement of regulatory oversight within the gaming sector. By implementing stricter sanctions, closing legal loopholes, and empowering regulatory bodies, the government aims to protect consumers and deter organized crime from profiting from unlawful gambling activities.
With substantial parliamentary support and coordination across ministries, Chile is advancing towards a robust legal framework that ensures games of chance are conducted transparently, fairly, and within the boundaries of law. The country is not only demonstrating its commitment to a safer and more regulated gaming environment but also reinforcing its resolve to dismantle the economic foundations of illegal gambling.
Erik Agary is a seasoned writer at True Games Reviews, specializing in gaming, casino games, and interactive entertainment. With a passion for all things digital, Erik dives deep into the latest trends and developments in the gaming world, offering insightful reviews and detailed analysis. His expertise spans across multiple gaming platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage that resonates with both novice and experienced gamers alike.
4/5Win Vegas Plus Casino
€10 FREE
