Sri Lanka moves to formalize gambling oversight with proposed new authority
Sri Lanka is set to introduce comprehensive regulation for both online and offshore gambling through the creation of a national Gambling Regularisation Authority.
New body aims to unify gambling regulation
Sri Lanka is moving forward with plans to regulate its gambling sector more comprehensively. The cabinet approved a draft bill that proposes the creation of a Gambling Regularisation Authority. This body would oversee all gambling operations, including online betting, land-based casinos, and activities at sea or within Colombo Port City.
The Department of Government Information confirmed the decision in a public statement following Monday’s cabinet meeting. The proposal will now go to parliament for approval.
Colombo Port City and offshore gambling included
The draft, called the Gambling Sports Regularisation Act, received cabinet backing on February 24. The Attorney General reviewed it shortly after. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who also serves as Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, submitted the bill.
Colombo Port City is a large development built on reclaimed land west of Colombo. Its main investor, China Harbour Engineering Co Ltd, committed US$1.4 billion to the project. With this new bill, the government wants to bring gambling activity in the area under national regulation.
Onshore casinos also under the new framework
Minister Nalinda Jayatissa, the cabinet spokesperson, said the new authority will also supervise land-based casinos. Currently, these venues follow gazetted rules on licensing and entry fees, but they are not governed by a specific parliamentary act.
Melco Resorts & Entertainment Ltd will operate one of the largest upcoming venues: the City of Dreams Sri Lanka. The $1 billion project, developed by John Keells Holdings, is scheduled to open in Q3 2025. Melco received a 20-year license for the resort, which took effect in April 2024.
As part of its 2025 budget plan, the government also announced higher taxes and fees. The entrance fee for casinos will rise from $50 to $100 per person. The turnover tax on gambling operations will increase from 15% to 18%.