Colombia: Casinos and bingo halls grow by 9%, leading national revenue

Land-based games remain the main income source

Localised games — played only inside licensed venues — produced COP $378.268 bn in revenue last year. This figure equals 39% of all gambling funds collected by Coljuegos. Casinos and bingo halls remain the largest single source of gambling income nationwide.

Most of the money goes directly to Colombia’s subsidised public health system. Revenue from these venues rose by 9.3% compared with 2024. In the prior year, land-based games contributed COP$345.875bn. The nearly COP$33bn increase shows steady demand for in-person play. Physical venues continue to attract regular players.

Enforcement actions boost collections

Stronger enforcement played a key role in the revenue increase — officials say. Coljuegos expanded inspections and control efforts throughout 2025. Authorities focused on removing illegal gambling activity from the market.

During the year, enforcement work produced clear results:

• 95 enforcement operations were carried out nationwide

• 15 departments were covered by inspection teams

• 3,047 illegal gambling machines were seized

Coljuegos described the scale of these actions as historic. President Marco Emilio Hincapié linked enforcement directly to higher collections. “This increase would not have been possible without our fight against illegality,” he said. His remarks suggest regulation supports growth rather than limits it.

A more stable market takes shape

The figures point to a market with clearer rules and stronger oversight. Colombia currently has around 3,700 authorised gambling establishments. This structure may lower risk for licensed operators. It also helps investors plan with more confidence.

Nevertheless, officials remain careful when discussing the outlook. They warn that growth depends on ongoing enforcement. Any pause in control efforts could reduce future health transfers.

New options inside existing venues

Coljuegos is also working to refresh the casino offer. One proposal allows virtual sports race betting inside physical venues. The format is known locally as ACDV. It simulates races through digital systems while keeping play on-site.

The regulator is also preparing a social program called “Machines for Peace” — details remain limited. Officials say the initiative will link gaming activity to social funding goals. Together, these steps point to steady change rather than sudden shifts. For now, casinos and bingo halls continue to lead Colombia’s gambling revenue — backed by enforcement, stability, and steady demand.