Sri Lanka has tabled landmark legislation to establish a Gambling Regulatory Authority, setting the stage for comprehensive oversight of both physical and online gambling, just weeks ahead of the opening of the country’s first international casino at the upcoming City of Dreams integrated resort in Colombo.
The draft bill, introduced in Parliament on Friday (20) , includes provisions to license and regulate casinos, online gaming platforms, and junket operators—intermediaries who bring high-stakes gamblers to casinos in exchange for a share of the profits.
Deputy Finance and Planning Minister Harshana Suriyapperuma said the bill reflects international best practices. “This framework was developed by studying regulatory models in Singapore and other jurisdictions. It’s been long promised, but this administration is finally delivering it,” he told Parliament.
The timing aligns with the anticipated August launch of the City of Dreams Colombo, operated by global gaming giant Melco Resorts & Entertainment, in partnership with Sri Lanka’s John Keells Holdings. The venture marks South Asia’s first integrated resort with a casino, entertainment, hospitality, and retail facilities.
While Sri Lanka has previously imposed casino license fees and maintained some regulation under existing laws, the new bill is expected to create a formal, centralised authority to manage the fast-evolving industry, including online betting platforms.
In a move to facilitate the industry’s growth, the government relaxed import restrictions on gaming equipment in May, allowing operators to bring in necessary infrastructure. Minister Suriyapperuma also confirmed that certain sports equipment for tourism facilities has been granted similar exemptions.
Several long-operating domestic casinos have functioned under various local authority permits for years. The new regulatory regime is seen as a crucial step toward bringing consistency, transparency, and international credibility to Sri Lanka’s gaming landscape.
The proposed Gambling Regulatory Authority is expected to streamline licensing, impose compliance standards, and enforce responsible gambling practices, with a view to unlocking revenue while mitigating social risks.
