Colombia’s online gambling industry is about to take a big leap as lawmakers are close to officially recognizing eSports in the legal framework. Law 026 of 2024, a bill that classifies eSports as a sport and integrates it into Colombia’s National Sports System, has passed the Senate and is waiting for the President’s approval.
If approved, this will be a big step forward, regulating eSports betting and opening a new legal way to bet. Industry leaders are supporting the bill, considering it’s a timely response to the technological changes and consumer’s preferences.
Marco Emilio Hincapié, President of Coljuegos—the national gambling regulator—called it a turning point for the industry. “We are giving legislative backing to eSports. It’s the present and the future and Colombia is going to be in pace with the changes”, said Hincapié.
The bill will appeal to a younger, digitally native audience and will inject new blood to an already growing market. eSports with its global popularity and competitive edge is a new kind of entertainment that fits with modern bettors.
But it goes beyond gambling. It sets up the structure for the eSports ecosystem in Colombia, clubs, leagues and national federations. Public funding could be available for emerging cyber-athletes and talent development programs. This institutional support could allow Colombian players to compete globally and increase the country’s presence in international eSports tournaments.
The bill arrives at the right time. Between January and March 2025, the licensed online betting platforms in Colombia generated 4.6 trillion pesos in bets, traditional sports were the leaders. But the recent tax changes (19% VAT on deposits) have caused a significant drop in gross gaming revenue and fear of users migrating to unregulated markets.
By including eSports in the regulated system, the government wants to counteract these pressures and keep the industry growing. If approved, the bill could be the catalyst for innovation and make Colombia a regional leader in gaming and gambling reform.
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