Nationwide Opportunity with Regional Focus
Chile’s casino industry is poised for a refresh as the Superintendency of Gaming Casinos (SCJ) opens a comprehensive bidding process for new operating permits. This initiative presents a unique opportunity for businesses to establish a presence in Chile’s regulated gaming market, with clear deadlines, regional quotas, and a focus on transparency.
Farewell to Expiring Permits, Hello New Era
The announcement comes as existing permits held by Casino de Juegos Coyhaique SA and Rantrur S.A. approach their expiration dates in April and May of 2027, respectively. This bidding process signifies a crucial shift, paving the way for a new generation of casino operators in Chile.
Streamlined Process with Clear Deadlines
The SCJ has outlined the new bidding process through Exempt Resolutions No. 929 and No. 913, issued in December 2024. These resolutions offer a detailed roadmap for both national and regional casino permits, ensuring a streamlined application process for interested parties.
Early Bird Gets the Casino: Application Deadlines
For businesses seeking a nationwide permit, the application deadline is April 14, 2025. Those interested in the Aysén Region specifically have a slightly extended window, with submissions due on April 21, 2025. This timeframe provides ample time for applicants to prepare their proposals, adhering to the SCJ’s technical and economic requirements.
Open Communication and Clarifications
Recognizing the importance of clear communication, the SCJ offers a dedicated window for applicants to submit inquiries regarding the technical bases. For national permits, clarifications can be requested within the first ten business days following the announcement. Similarly, Aysén Region applicants can submit questions via email to consultasprocesoaysen@scj.gob.cl. Notably, the SCJ has committed to responding to all inquiries within 15 business days, fostering an atmosphere of transparency and accessibility.
Resources at Your Fingertips: SOPO and Technical Bases
To empower potential applicants, the SCJ has made all necessary resources readily available on its official website. This includes access to the SOPO (Casino Operating Permit Application System) along with its user manual and the comprehensive technical bases document. These resources provide in-depth details about submission requirements, evaluation criteria, and compliance with Chilean gaming regulations, ensuring applicants can craft proposals that meet the SCJ’s stringent standards.
Ensuring Balanced Development: Regional Quotas and Distribution
The SCJ has implemented clear regulations to guarantee a balanced distribution of casino establishments across the country. This framework allows for a minimum of one and a maximum of three casinos per region, with the exception of the Metropolitan Region, which remains casino-free.
Additionally, a minimum distance of 70 kilometers must be maintained between casinos, regardless of regional borders. This strategy aims to prevent over-saturation in specific areas and promotes equitable distribution of gaming facilities throughout Chile.
Flexibility for Applicants: Choosing the Right Location
While adhering to the established regional quotas and distance regulations, applicants enjoy flexibility in choosing the specific municipality for their proposed casino project. This empowers businesses to strategically select locations that align with their market research and growth goals.
Building on Previous Decisions: A Focus on Transparency
This bidding round stems from the SCJ’s October 2024 decision to reject proposals for a casino in the Castro commune of Los Lagos Region. The rejections highlighted the SCJ’s commitment to upholding high standards and ensuring new projects align with the nation’s gaming policies and regional development goals.
A Turning Point for Chilean Gaming: Innovation and Sustainability
This bidding process marks a significant milestone for Chile’s gaming industry. Superintendent Vivien Villagrán emphasizes the importance of attracting technically and economically sound proposals, fostering a competitive and transparent environment that prioritizes responsible gaming practices.
Ready to Take the Stage? Key Resources and Next Steps
Interested businesses are encouraged to visit the SCJ’s official website to access all relevant documents, including the technical bases and SOPO system. These resources will be readily available until April 20, 2025, for regional permits, offering ample time for preparation.
This transparent bidding process underscores Chile’s dedication to fostering a well-regulated gaming industry that thrives on innovation, responsible practices, and balanced economic growth. By submitting comprehensive proposals that meet the SCJ’s criteria, businesses can secure their place in this exciting new chapter of Chilean gaming.
