Thanks to comprehensive legislation and a growing tourism industry, the country now boasts over 300 legal casinos, contributing significantly to its economy and job market.
The Colombian government, through Coljuegos, regulates both land-based and online gambling. Since 2016, when Colombia became the first Latin American country to regulate online gambling, its gaming industry has expanded rapidly, attracting international operators and investors.
Cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena are home to high-end casinos offering slots, table games, and poker rooms. These venues cater not only to locals but also to international tourists seeking a unique gaming experience. With steady growth, increased digital integration, and responsible gambling measures, Colombia’s casino sector continues to thrive as a model for other countries in the region.
1. A History of Legalization and Regulation
Colombia's journey toward a fully regulated casino industry began in earnest in the early 2000s, but the most significant change came in 2016. That year, Colombia became the first country in Latin America to regulate online gambling under the oversight of Coljuegos, the national gaming authority. This move not only boosted public trust but also attracted international casino operators.
Unlike many other countries in the region where gambling remains a legal gray area, Colombia has implemented strict guidelines and licensing requirements, creating a transparent and accountable gaming environment.
2. Physical Casinos Across the Country
Colombia is home to over 300 licensed physical casinos, operating in cities and tourist hotspots like Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, and Cartagena. These venues range from small local establishments with slot machines to full-service casinos offering blackjack, roulette, poker tournaments, and VIP lounges. Major casinos like Casino Rio in Bogotá and Casino Caribe in Cartagena cater to both domestic and international visitors. Many of these casinos are located inside hotels and resorts, adding to their appeal for tourists.
3. The Booming Online Casino Sector
Perhaps the most exciting growth area has been in the online gambling space. Thanks to early regulation, Colombia now has dozens of approved platforms offering slots, live dealer games, sports betting, and poker. Some of the top names include Zamba.co, RushBet, and Wplay.co—many of which operate in partnership with well-known European brands.
This digital transformation has made gambling more accessible, especially to younger, tech-savvy Colombians. Mobile gaming and secure payment gateways have also made online casinos a convenient alternative to physical venues.
4. Economic and Social Impact
The legal gambling industry is a major source of revenue for Colombia. Taxes from casinos fund public health services and social programs. According to Coljuegos, gambling revenues have been steadily increasing year-over-year, contributing hundreds of millions of pesos annually to the national budget.
Additionally, the industry supports thousands of jobs, from dealers and hospitality workers to IT professionals and marketing teams in online operations.
5. Responsible Gambling and Future Outlook
Colombia’s regulators have also prioritized responsible gambling, requiring licensed operators to offer tools like self-exclusion, deposit limits, and access to support services for problem gambling.
Looking forward, the country is expected to expand its gaming laws to include more types of games and newer technologies like virtual reality casinos and cryptocurrency payments.
Conclusion
Colombia’s casino industry is a clear example of how smart regulation, technological innovation, and market demand can transform a sector. As tourism grows and digital platforms continue to evolve, Colombia stands at the forefront of a booming gaming economy in Latin America—setting the standard for others to follow.