Sri Lanka blocks access to 24 unlicensed betting sites
The latest enforcement action targets major international gambling brands operating without licences under Sri Lanka’s 2025 gambling law.
Sri Lanka.- Some 24 online betting websites have been subject to a blocking order in Sri Lanka after being found to be operating in the country without local licences. The Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) instructed the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL) to direct all telecommunications providers to restrict access to the websites.
The blocked platforms include several well-known international operators, such as bet365, Betway, Stake, Unibet, Dafabet, Betfair, 22Bet, Parimatch, Mostbet and Megapari.
Although online gambling is legal in Sri Lanka, only licensed operators are permitted to serve the market. The Gambling Regulatory Authority Act, No. 17 of 2025 requires online gambling operators to obtain a local licence before offering services. Providing or promoting gambling services without licences issued under Sections 15, 16 and 18 is an offence under Section 44 of the legislation.
The Ministry of Digital Economy cautioned consumers against using unauthorised gambling platforms, warning that such websites operate outside the country’s regulatory framework and may expose users to financial risks. Officials said further enforcement measures would be taken in collaboration with other government agencies as Sri Lanka seeks to strengthen oversight of the online gambling market and curb illegal operators.
