BGC signs cooperation agreement with Chilean igaming association
The British gambling industry lobby group aims to support the introduction of regulated online gambling in Chile.
UK.- The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), the lobby group that represents the biggest gambling operators in the UK, has signed a Cooperation Agreement with Chile’s Agrupación de Plataformas de Apuesta en Línea (aPAL). The BGC said the move would support efforts to promote the development of a sustainable and well-regulated online gambling market in Chile.
The BGC says its members together represent around 90 per cent of the regulated betting and gaming industry in the UK. Meanwhile, aPAL was formed in 2022 by a group of international online betting operators keen to promote the introduction of modern gambling regulation in Chile.
Under the Cooperation Agreement, the BGC and aPAL intend to work together, initially for one year, to share international experience and evidence and strengthen the knowledge base around gambling regulation. They also intend to engage with policymakers and stakeholders on the development of a sustainable licensing framework in Chile.
Chile has a strong land-based casino sector, as well as a horseracing and a lottery duopoly. Online gambling in Chile is not prohibited but it remains unregulated, with plans for regulation having been delayed several times.
A draft bill to regulate online gaming in Chile has been under discussion for several years. In August 2025, the Senate unanimously approved the bill, marking a major step forward in the legislative process. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court ordered internet providers to block unlicensed operators.
Following elections in the southern cone nation in November and December, the new Chilean Government could advance with the legislation and introduce licensing by 2027.
Carlos Baeza, a Chilean lawyer and representative of aPAL, said: “Chile has a real opportunity to introduce a modern, robust regulatory framework for online gambling that protects consumers, tackles illegal activity and delivers meaningful public benefits. At present, online gambling operates entirely outside any regulatory oversight, leaving players without safeguards and the state without visibility or control.
“By working with the BGC, we can draw on international best practice and ensure policymakers have access to high-quality evidence and experience from well-regulated markets.”
Grainne Hurst, Chief Executive of the Betting and Gaming Council, added: “The BGC is pleased to be working with aPAL at a pivotal moment for gambling reform in Chile. Well-designed regulation is essential to protect players, raise standards and drive out the harmful black market.
“The UK’s regulated market shows how robust licensing, high standards and effective oversight can support safer gambling while allowing a well-regulated industry to thrive. This agreement reflects our commitment to sharing that experience and supporting evidence-based policymaking internationally.”
