Sri Lanka Sets December 1 Start For Gambling Regulatory Authority

A new phase for Sri Lanka gambling oversight arrives soon, with the Gambling Regulatory Authority Act set to take effect on December 1. A gazette published in the name of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake confirmed the effective date, setting the foundation for a regulator designed to reshape supervision of betting, gaming venues, and casino operations.

Good to Know

• Gambling Regulatory Authority begins work from December 1
• Cabinet endorsed a plan for higher 2025 betting and gaming taxes
• New casino entry fee for citizens expected to rise to US$100

Authorities already outlined plans in October to finish forming the new Gambling Regulatory Authority by June 30 next year. The body stems from legislation approved in August, when parliament passed a bill enabling the creation of a central regulator for the sector.

A Broader Mandate For Gambling Oversight

Lawmakers agreed that the regulator will take on a wide remit covering revenue collection, standard rules for gaming businesses, and a national approach to transparency. The Act also directs the authority to suppress illegal gambling networks and introduce proper compliance frameworks for operators across the country. Officials say the goal is to give the industry one clear home after years of fragmented oversight.

A Busy Year For Sri Lanka Casino And Gaming Policy

Sri Lanka has been rolling out changes across its betting and gaming landscape throughout the year. August saw the debut of City of Dreams Sri Lanka, the first integrated resort in the country built to international standards. The property is operated by Melco Resorts and Entertainment Ltd and sits in Colombo, becoming a new tourist draw for regional players.

Policy adjustments continued a few weeks later. Reports from September noted that the Cabinet of Ministers backed a proposal for the 2025 budget that lifts the betting and gaming levy from 15 percent to 18 percent. The same proposal also doubles the casino entry fee for citizens to US$100. Officials said the updated rate aims to align tax policy with broader fiscal needs while keeping foreign visitor demand intact.

FAQ

When will the Gambling Regulatory Authority Act start?

The Act takes effect on December 1, according to an official gazette attributed to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

What tasks will the regulator handle?

The authority will collect gambling-related revenue, set standard rules for betting and gaming operations, promote transparent practices, and counter illegal gambling.

How soon will the full authority be formed?

Government officials aim to complete the formation of the body by June 30 next year.

Did Sri Lanka introduce any casino or betting tax changes?

Cabinet members supported a 2025 plan to lift the betting and gaming levy to 18 percent and raise the casino entry fee for citizens to US$100.

Is there a new casino project in the country?

City of Dreams Sri Lanka opened in August under Melco Resorts and Entertainment Ltd, marking a new international-standard resort in Colombo.

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