Government Drafts Landmark Legislation to Modernise Oversight
The Sri Lankan Government has taken a major step toward restructuring its gambling industry by introducing a draft bill to establish a Gambling Regulatory Authority. The move, which signals a significant policy shift, comes under the leadership of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who also serves as the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development.
The legislation aims to repeal three outdated laws—the Horse Racing Betting Ordinance, the Gambling Ordinance, and the Casino Ordinance—some of which date back several decades. These statutes, officials argue, no longer align with the current operational scale and technological landscape of gambling in the country.
Independent Authority to Ensure Transparency and Compliance
If passed, the Gambling Regulatory Authority Act will establish an independent body responsible for overseeing all legal gambling activities, ensuring transparency, and eliminating illegal operations. The Authority will have far-reaching powers to license operators, enforce regulatory compliance, and streamline revenue collection—a major point of focus given ongoing concerns about unregulated betting and potential revenue leakage.
The Cabinet of Ministers approved the framework on 21 April, clearing the way for parliamentary debate. Once enacted, the Authority will become the central body tasked with monitoring gambling practices across all formats, including casinos, betting shops, and potentially online platforms.
Broader Reform Reflects Push for Fiscal and Legal Accountability
The draft bill is part of the broader governance reform agenda led by President Dissanayake. It reflects an effort to bring more structure and accountability to a sector often marred by allegations of money laundering, tax evasion, and unauthorised operations. The government expects the new Authority to increase state revenue from gambling while tightening enforcement against illegal activities.
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The reform is also seen as a response to growing public and institutional concern over the social and economic impact of poorly regulated gambling. By creating a unified regulatory framework, the government hopes to curb harmful practices and restore integrity to the industry.
