In Colombia, purchasing lottery tickets is legal and regulated under a state-controlled monopoly. The primary authority overseeing gambling activities is Coljuegos, established by Decree 4142 in 2011. Coljuegos is responsible for issuing concessions, regulating both land-based and online gambling, and ensuring compliance with national laws. Lottery games, including Baloto and Super Astro, are operated under exclusive concession contracts awarded through public tenders, typically lasting five years. These concessions ensure that only authorized entities can offer lottery services, maintaining the integrity and legality of the games.
The regulation of lottery games is not solely at the national level. While Coljuegos oversees national lotteries, regional lotteries are managed by local entities under the supervision of the National Council of Games of Chance. This dual structure allows for both national and regional lottery games to operate legally, provided they adhere to the established regulatory frameworks. Unauthorized lottery operations, including those promoted via social media or unlicensed online platforms, are considered illegal and are subject to enforcement actions, including website blocking and legal penalties.
"Any type of gambling offered in Colombia is considered illegal if the offer comes from any individual without an authorisation from the national regulator, by any means." (1)
Coljuegos has been proactive in combating illegal gambling activities. As of July 2024, the regulator reported the blocking of over 8,600 websites promoting unauthorized betting and online casinos. These enforcement actions are part of a broader strategy to ensure that gambling activities contribute to public welfare. Notably, revenues from legal gambling operations are allocated to Colombia's healthcare system, underscoring the importance of maintaining a regulated gambling environment. The government's commitment to this framework is evident in its continuous efforts to monitor, regulate, and enforce gambling laws across the country.
Source:
https://www.theiaga.org/snapshot--remote-gambling-in-colombia
https://www.yogonet.com/international/news/2024/07/18/73182-colombia-coljuegos-blocks-more-than-8-600-websites-for-promoting-illegal-betting-sites-and-online-casinos
Last updated: 20-05-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
