Bolivia’s Gaming Control Authority (AJ) issued 1,226 gambling licences in 2025, reflecting continued growth and formalisation across the country’s regulated gaming sector.

The regulator confirmed the figures during its annual accountability update, although it did not specify how many licences were granted to operators versus suppliers.

Strong budget execution and market activity

AJ reported that it deployed more than 90% of its annual budget, with resources primarily allocated to regulatory oversight, supervision of lotteries and raffles, and monitoring of promotional gaming activities.

Across the market, licensed promotions and raffle organisers distributed approximately 573 million bolivianos ($82.8 million) in prizes during the year, underlining the scale of regulated activity.

The regulator noted that the volume of licence applications reflects increasing interest from businesses seeking to operate within Bolivia’s legal framework.

Intensified enforcement against illegal gambling

Alongside market growth, AJ significantly increased enforcement efforts targeting unlicensed operators. Authorities carried out raids on 82 illegal gambling venues, seizing 119 devices and destroying a further 230 unauthorised machines.

Enforcement actions also focused on peri-urban areas, including targeted operations in Cochabamba aimed at dismantling informal gaming networks.

Regulatory standards and integrity focus

During the year, AJ achieved ISO 9001:2015 certification through an external audit, marking progress in standardising regulatory processes and aligning with international best practices.

The update comes as Bolivia’s gambling market continues to expand, driven largely by lotteries, raffles and promotional gaming. However, integrity concerns, particularly around sports betting, remain a priority following recent match-fixing allegations in domestic football.

Sources: IGB