The Chilean Gaming Control Board (SCJ) has initiated the detailed process for issuing new casino operating licenses, providing opportunities for businesses to participate in the country's evolving gaming industry. This announcement comes as the licenses held by Casino de Juegos Coyhaique SA and Rantrur SA are set to expire in April and May 2027, respectively.
This decision marks a critical phase in the Chilean casino industry, offering clear deadlines, regulations, and opportunities for interested applicants.
The Supreme Court issued Exemption Decrees No. 929 and No. 913 on December 4 and December 2, 2024, respectively, outlining the new bidding process.
These decrees define specific steps, deadlines, and regulations for operators aiming to obtain regional and national casino institution licenses.
Application Guide and Deadlines:
Applicants interested in the Aysén Region must submit their proposals by April 21, 2025, when an official hearing will be held at the Supreme Court headquarters in Santiago. For national licenses, the submission deadline is earlier, on April 14, 2025, at the same location. This schedule allows applicants 90 working days to prepare their technical and economic proposals following the announcement by the Supreme Court.
The SCJ stated in a press release that within the first ten working days, applicants may request clarifications or submit inquiries about the technical basis. For the Aysén Region license, these inquiries can be sent via email to consultasprocesoaysen@scj.gob.cl. The SCJ commits to responding to all queries within 15 working days, ensuring transparency and accessibility for all participants.
To streamline the process, applicants can download the technical basis, the casino operating license application system (SOPO), and its user manual from the SCJ's official website. These resources provide comprehensive details about submission requirements, evaluation criteria, and compliance with national gaming laws.
The Supreme Court has set clear restrictions and requirements for casino operations to ensure balanced development across Chile. Each region is allowed a maximum of three casinos and a minimum of one, except in metropolitan areas where casinos are not permitted. Additionally, all casinos must maintain a distance of at least 70 kilometers from each other, regardless of regional boundaries.
This initiative aims to prevent the gaming industry from becoming overly concentrated in specific areas while encouraging a fair distribution of gaming institutions nationwide. The Supreme Court emphasizes that applicants can freely propose projects in any city within these regulatory limits, offering flexibility to those interested in entering the Chilean gaming market.
Background and Industry Development:
This round of bidding follows the Supreme Court's decision in October 2024 to reject two proposals to establish a casino in Castro, Los Lagos Region. The bids from Inversiones y Turismo Chiloé SA and Rantrur SA were declined for not meeting the required evaluation standards.
Through this new process, the SCJ aims to create a more competitive and transparent environment for casino operations. Director Vivien Villagrán reiterated the importance of adhering to high standards in technical and economic proposals to ensure new projects align with the country's gaming policies and regional development goals.
The current bidding opportunity is a critical moment for the industry, as businesses can secure a place in a regulated market that prioritizes fairness and economic growth. The SCJ emphasizes its commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability in casino operations, making this process a significant milestone in the Chilean gaming industry.
Interested applicants can directly obtain all necessary documents, including the technical basis and the SOPO system, from the SCJ's official website. These resources are available for regional licenses, with an open period until April 20, 2025, providing ample time for preparation.
Applicants are encouraged to carefully read the guidelines and submit comprehensive proposals that meet the SCJ's stringent standards. This process highlights Chile's dedication to maintaining a robust and well-regulated gaming industry, balancing growth with responsible gaming practices.
