CONALOT Reaffirms Exclusive Authority Over Lotteries and Raffles
Venezuela.- 22 September 2026 | www.zonadeazar.com Venezuela’s National Lottery Commission, CONALOT, has reaffirmed that it is the country’s sole authority with powers to regulate and inspect lottery and raffle activities nationwide.
The regulator is seeking to provide greater institutional clarity over who may conduct inspections, supervision and enforcement procedures within the sector.
Exclusive Authority
CONALOT reiterated that it holds exclusive responsibility for:
- Inspection.
- Supervision.
- Regulatory oversight.
- Control.
These powers apply to regulated entities and other obligated parties operating within Venezuela’s lottery and raffle framework.
Nationwide Jurisdiction
The Commission’s authority extends throughout Venezuelan territory.
Regulatory procedures involving lotteries and raffles must therefore be conducted under the authority of the national regulator.
Regulated Entities
CONALOT’s supervisory work covers parties subject to obligations established under the existing legal framework.
The regulator aims to ensure that authorised activities operate in accordance with applicable procedures and requirements.
Properly Identified Officials
The Commission also clarified that inspections may only be carried out by formally identified and accredited officials.
The requirement is intended to provide greater legal certainty to regulated businesses and other parties subject to inspection.
Institutional Credentials Required
Inspectors must carry official CONALOT identification during procedures.
This enables regulated parties to confirm that the person conducting the inspection belongs to the Commission and is authorised to perform regulatory duties.
Supporting Administrative Documentation
Officials must also carry the relevant administrative documentation supporting each inspection.
The requirement is designed to provide traceability and transparency throughout enforcement procedures.
Protection Against Irregular Inspections
The clarification also provides safeguards against individuals attempting to present themselves as authorised inspectors without proper accreditation.
Operators and regulated parties can request official identification and supporting documents before allowing an inspection to proceed.
Cooperation With Other State Bodies
Although CONALOT retains exclusive sectoral authority over lotteries and raffles, it may coordinate with other Venezuelan government bodies.
Such cooperation may take place where circumstances require it and within the legal responsibilities assigned to each institution.
Institutional Coordination
This mechanism allows CONALOT to work with other authorities when an inspection raises matters extending beyond gambling regulation itself.
The involvement of additional agencies does not alter CONALOT’s position as the principal regulatory authority for lottery and raffle activities.
Transparency as a Priority
The Commission reiterated its commitment to transparent and institutionally accountable management focused on legality and compliance.
Formal identification of inspectors forms part of that approach.
Regulatory Clarity
The announcement is also intended to avoid conflicting interpretations regarding which bodies may directly supervise lotteries and raffles.
CONALOT is seeking to establish a consistent framework for operators and organisations active in the sector.
Industry Context
A clearly identified regulatory authority is particularly important in activities involving prize draws, consumer funds and direct interaction with the public.
Formal oversight is intended to ensure that such activities operate through recognised procedures.
Enforcement and Compliance
Sector supervision includes verifying whether regulated entities comply with applicable obligations.
Through its inspection powers, CONALOT aims to reinforce lawful operations and reduce activity taking place outside the formal framework.
Next Steps and Impact
CONALOT will continue to exercise inspection, supervision and control over lotteries and raffles throughout Venezuela.
The Commission may also request support from other state institutions where necessary while retaining its exclusive sectoral authority.
The clarification reinforces the requirement that every official inspection be carried out by properly accredited personnel supported by the relevant administrative documentation.
Editó: @fonta
