Colombian Court Suspends Key Online Gaming Advertising Rules
Colombia.- 10 July 2026 www.zonadeazar.com Colombia’s Council of State has confirmed the provisional suspension of several key provisions contained in Coljuegos’ 2023 advertising resolution governing online gaming. The ruling temporarily removes a number of obligations and sanctions imposed on licensed operators while the legal proceedings continue.
News Details
The court’s precautionary measure became final after no appeal was filed within the legal deadline. Among the suspended provisions is Article 6, which capped operators’ advertising expenditure at 20% of gross gaming revenue (GGR).
The decision also suspends Article 7, removing the obligation for operators to submit annual advertising plans and quarterly reports detailing marketing contracts, invoices and expenses. Parts of Article 9 were likewise suspended, preventing sanctions including fines of 1.5% of gross revenue, refusal to renew concession contracts or unilateral contract termination.
In addition, one section of Article 10 requiring prior authorisation from Coljuegos for certain concessionaire share transactions has also been suspended. However, the substantive case remains pending before the Council of State, which will issue a final ruling on the legality of the regulation.
Industry Context
The original resolution sought to strengthen oversight of online gaming advertising and licensed operators. Industry representatives argued that several provisions exceeded Coljuegos’ regulatory authority and imposed disproportionate restrictions on economic freedom. The decision reinforces the broader debate over regulatory powers and legal certainty within Colombia’s gambling sector.
Statements
Juan Camilo Carrasco, Managing Partner at Sora Lawyers, said:
“The partial suspension of Coljuegos’ Advertising Resolution has been confirmed. It is a great relief for the industry.”
He also stated:
“Beyond the outcome itself, it is worth highlighting the three legal arguments adopted by the Council of State, as they extend beyond the gaming industry and reinforce legal certainty in Colombia.”
Next Steps or Impact
Although the suspension is already in force, the Council of State must still rule on the merits of the case and determine whether the contested regulation complies with Colombia’s constitutional and legal framework. The final judgment could redefine the scope of Coljuegos’ regulatory powers over online gaming advertising.
Edited by: @_fonta
