Sri Lanka delays first gambling regulations to 2026 as expert review continues
2026-07-20
Source: Global Gaming Insider
Sri Lanka's Gambling Regulatory Authority has missed its June 30 deadline for publishing initial gambling regulations, now expecting draft rules later in 2026 as an expert committee reviews the framework. Lawmakers expressed frustration over delays and urged the authority to consult with industry operators to avoid further setbacks.
Sri Lanka's Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) has missed its self-imposed June 30 deadline for publishing the country's first set of gambling regulations, with officials now indicating that draft rules are expected later in 2026. The updated timeline emerged during a recent meeting of the Committee on Public Finance (COPF).
GRA Chairperson N M W N Bandara and Acting Director General Gaya Adikari informed the committee that an expert panel, formed with Cabinet approval, is currently reviewing the draft regulations. The first phase of the framework will concentrate on defining the scope of permitted gambling under Section 19 of the Act, establishing licensing procedures, regulating online betting, and implementing anti-money laundering measures. The review committee is slated to deliver its observations and recommendations by the end of the month.
COPF Chairperson Harsha de Silva voiced frustration over the repeated postponements, remarking that the regulator has been making similar assurances since 2022. He cautioned that each delay allows the gambling sector to grow without a modern oversight system and highlighted concerns about Sri Lanka's rising notoriety as a center for online scams. De Silva pressed the GRA to accelerate its work, arguing that inaction only heightens the dangers of illegal gambling and fraudulent operations.
The committee also pressed the GRA on its failure to consult with local industry participants. Both Bandara and Adikari conceded that the board had not engaged with gambling operators during the drafting process. Lawmakers warned that introducing rules without stakeholder input could trigger further delays if adjustments become necessary after publication, and urged the authority to begin consultations immediately while the expert review proceeds.
The Gambling Regulatory Authority Act, which established the new regulator and consolidated previous gambling laws, came into effect on December 1, 2025. However, the supplementary regulations currently under review are essential for the legislation to be fully implemented.