Chile Poll Backs Online Gambling Regulation as Senators Advance Ban

Almost two-thirds of respondents to a Chilean university survey favour strict regulation of online gambling, as lawmakers advance proposals that would prohibit private platforms.

The Universidad San Sebastián’s Public Policy Centre found that 63.5% supported operation under strict rules and state supervision. Another 30.8% favoured a complete ban, while 4.3% supported unrestricted operation. 

Strong support for player protection measures

The survey found that 98.6% supported mandatory identity validation before users could access platforms and gamble. The same proportion considered measures against fraud, money laundering and organised crime financing essential.

Deposit and spending limits attracted 89.9% support, while 86.3% backed a centralised self-exclusion register covering both online and land-based operators.

On taxation, 95.3% believed online betting companies should pay taxes in Chile. The university’s published release put support for higher tax rates than other sectors at 54.2%.

The online survey collected 1,024 responses across Chile’s 16 regions between October 9 and 26, 2026. 

Senate committee advances prohibition proposals

The Senate’s Economy Committee approved two amendments on November 9 aimed at prohibiting online betting platforms, moving away from the government’s proposed licensing and taxation framework.

The proposals remain part of the legislative process. Committee approval does not establish a new nationwide prohibition, and further parliamentary consideration is required. 

Deputies target tax administration resources

Separately, the Chamber of Deputies approved an amendment to the proposed 2027 budget on November 10 restricting the Internal Revenue Service’s spending.

The text would prevent the SII from using resources to implement or administer tax declaration and payment mechanisms for online betting platforms or other activities unauthorised to operate in Chile. The official vote recorded 133 in favour, two against and one abstention. 

The amendment concerns the tax authority’s resources rather than repealing operators’ underlying tax obligations. It still requires Senate consideration as part of the budget process.