The Bill, which was passed with amendments during the Second Reading debate on 19 August 2025, will now come into force as the Gambling Regulatory Authority Act, No. 17 of 2025.
The new law provides for the establishment of the Gambling Regulatory Authority as the sole regulatory body for all gaming operations in Sri Lanka. It also repeals the Betting on Horse-Racing Ordinance (Chapter 44), Gaming Ordinance (Chapter 46) and the Casino Business (Regulation) Act, No. 17 of 2010.
The Authority will function as an independent regulator with powers to oversee the gaming industry, including the issuance of legally enforceable social responsibility codes. Its scope extends to online and offshore gaming operations, including those conducted on board ships and within the Colombo Port City.
