Polla Chilena Flags “Social Cost” of Unregulated Online Casinos
Chile.– February 10, 2026 – www.zonadeazar.com The Polla Chilena de Beneficencia warned that the rise of unregulated online casinos and betting platforms in Chile could impose a social cost on the state exceeding USD 1.2 billion annually.
Institutional stance: social cost and problem gambling
The lottery operator’s chairperson highlighted that the cost of addressing gambling harm — including treatment and recovery — could reach around USD 1.2 billion per year, driven by the growth of unregulated digital gambling.
She also pointed to the influence of aggressive online casino marketing and influencer promotions, linking them to an increased incidence of problem gambling and early-age participation among youth.
Regulatory context in Chile
Chile currently lacks a comprehensive legal framework for online gambling and betting, creating an ongoing dispute between traditional licenced operators, state entities, and foreign online platforms.
In 2025, the Supreme Court of Chile ordered internet providers to block access to online betting sites operating without local licences — a measure supported by Polla Chilena and the Lotería de Concepción. Yet many such platforms remain accessible, underlining the regulatory ambiguity.
Sector and state implications
Measured social costs:
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Estimated USD 1.2 billion annually in social costs related to problem gambling driven by unregulated online casinos.
Player protection:
Polla Chilena’s position underscores a broader call for policies that not only regulate operators economically but also protect players through robust safeguards against gambling harm.
Conclusion
The Polla Chilena’s statement highlights a critical debate in Chile: the urgent need for a modern, clear regulatory framework for online gambling that balances industry growth, fiscal benefits, and societal well-being.
🔗 Edited by: @_fonta www.zonadeazar.com