Argentine province of San Juan approves comprehensive law to regulate online gambling

iGaming is receiving further attention in Argentina. The Chamber of Deputies of San Juan has approved a law to regulate online gambling within the province.

This legislation aims to primarily combat illegal gambling, prevent fraud, and mitigate addictive behaviors while safeguarding the rights of minors under 18 years old. The regulation represents a significant step in Argentina’s broader effort to bring order and transparency to the growing online gambling sector.

The newly enacted law provides a comprehensive definition of online gambling, including lotteries, raffles, bets, games of chance, and any activities involving monetary or economically valuable stakes.

It applies regardless of whether outcomes depend on skill, luck, or a combination of both. The law explicitly covers gambling activities conducted through digital, electronic, telecommunication, or interactive platforms with effects within San Juan province.

This definition ensures that a broad range of activities falls under its regulatory framework.

The legislation also establishes clear distinctions between legal and illegal gambling. By definition, online gambling is considered illegal when conducted by individuals or entities without the necessary license issued by the provincial authority.

Even licensed operators can face sanctions if they fail to comply with the specific requirements or conditions stipulated in the law. To enforce compliance, authorities are empowered to block any mechanisms used to facilitate unauthorised gambling activities.

Protecting public welfare and fighting fraud

San Juan’s new law prioritises protecting public welfare by introducing measures to prevent addictive gambling behaviors and safeguard vulnerable populations.

Specific provisions aim to protect minors, ensuring that those under 18 years of age are entirely excluded from online gambling platforms.

By setting clear guidelines and implementing robust monitoring systems, the province seeks to create a safer gambling environment while combating fraud and financial crimes associated with unregulated operators.

This legislation reflects Argentina’s broader push to regulate online gambling as the industry grows nationwide. Provinces like Buenos Aires and Córdoba have already introduced their own online gambling frameworks, signalling a trend of localised regulation across the country.

These measures collectively aim to reduce the prevalence of illegal gambling operations that have thrived in unregulated markets for years.

Argentina iGaming continues to evolve

San Juan’s move aligns with a wave of regulatory activity sweeping across Argentina. The province of Buenos Aires, for instance, recently expanded its online gambling regulations to include more stringent advertising restrictions and a mandatory self-exclusion program for at-risk individuals.

Similarly, Córdoba has rolled out a licensing system requiring operators to meet specific standards of transparency, responsible gambling practices, and technological security.

At the federal level, discussions have intensified around establishing a unified framework to address cross-provincial gambling activities.

Although each province retains jurisdiction over its gambling laws, increasing collaboration among provincial governments is anticipated to streamline oversight and enforcement.

San Juan’s new law is part of a broader effort to bring transparency, safety, and accountability to Argentina’s online gambling sector. As other provinces follow suit, Argentina is gradually building a regulated ecosystem that balances economic growth with consumer protection.

Share