Colombia's Fecoljuegos challenges misconceptions on gaming taxation

The Colombian Federation of Gaming Entrepreneurs (Fecoljuegos) has firmly rejected recent claims suggesting that the legal gaming industry benefits from fiscal privileges or subsidies. The organization expressed concern over the inaccuracies of these statements, emphasizing that they fail to reflect the economic and tax realities of a sector operating under one of Colombia's most demanding fiscal frameworks.

Fecoljuegos clarified that the legal gaming industry does not receive subsidies or special exemptions. Instead, it is a significant contributor to public finances, with over COP 990 billion allocated to the healthcare system in 2024. Beyond this, the industry fulfills various tax obligations, including VAT, income tax, parafiscal contributions, and local levies. Misrepresenting this reality risks destabilizing more than 150,000 jobs and encourages illegal gambling operations that evade regulations and fail to contribute to the economy.

The federation called for fiscal debates to be grounded in technical criteria and conducted transparently. It reiterated that the legal gaming sector is an active partner in Colombia’s fiscal solutions, not a privileged entity. Fecoljuegos also expressed its willingness to collaborate with government and legislative bodies to develop a sustainable and equitable tax agenda based on evidence.

Fecoljuegos urged stakeholders to rely on accurate data rather than misleading narratives that harm the industry's reputation, investment opportunities, and employment. It highlighted the sector's commitment to legality, innovation, and Colombia's development while stressing the need for responsible regulation and constructive dialogue.