Gambling ban proposed to be lifted in Ecuador

The ban on gambling may be lifted in Ecuador. With such a proposal last Wednesday was made by the President of the country Daniel Noboa.

The head of state provided the Constitutional Court with a list of 11 questions to poll the country's population as part of the Public Consultation, the last of which concerns the gambling sector.

"Do you agree to allow the operation of casinos, gambling halls, betting shops or businesses involved in gambling?" - reads the question.

Recall that until 17 March 2012, there were 32 casinos and bingo halls operating in the country. They were closed as a result of the referendum held on 7 May 2011, which was initiated by the former President of the country Rafael Correa. 45.76% were in favour of banning casinos and bingo halls, while 41% of those who came to the polls voted against it. 

Following the ban, gamblers from Ecuador continued to visit casinos, but in neighbouring Peru and Colombia. Analysts estimate that currently 15 per cent of gambling revenue in these countries, which amounts to $45 million, is accounted for by players from Ecuador, and this does not take into account the costs of Ecuadorians on online gambling, which is not officially regulated.