Sri Lanka Seeks to Regulate Gambling with New Authority

Sri Lanka’s Cabinet has approved the draft Gambling Sports Regularization Bill, paving the way for its introduction in Parliament. The bill proposes the creation of a Gambling Regularization Authority, a new regulatory body to oversee sports betting, both onshore and offshore, including online platforms and activities in Colombo Port City.

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The bill was proposed by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, as the Finance Minister has been cleared for publication in the government gazette. The Attorney General has reviewed the draft, confirming its legal validity. The authority will monitor onshore betting, offshore betting (on ships), and online gambling to prevent exploitation and ensure responsible practices.

Cabinet Spokesman Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa stated, “The proposal follows a February decision to draft legislation regulating gambling.” The move addresses rising concerns over unregulated betting while adapting to digital and cross-border gambling trends.

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The bill will now go to Parliament for debate, where its final structure and economic impact will be further examined. This step signals Sri Lanka’s push for a modernized gambling framework.