Sri Lanka has blocked access to 24 online gambling and betting websites operating without local licences. This includes Stake, bet365, Betway, and 1xBet.
The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL) instructed all telecommunications service providers to restrict access to the websites with immediate effect. This action was taken under the country’s Gambling Regulatory Authority Act No. 17 of 2025.
Major International Brands Affected
The list of blocked platforms also includes Betfair, Unibet, Dafabet, 22Bet, Melbet, BC.Game, Parimatch, Mostbet, 1Win, and BetWinner.
Sri Lankan media published the full list of all 24 affected websites.
Authorities urged the public not to use or deposit money with unlicensed online gambling operators. These operators operate outside Sri Lanka’s legal framework.
Licensing Requirements Under New Law
Under Sections 15, 16, and 18 of the Gambling Regulatory Authority Act, gambling operators must obtain a valid licence before offering services in Sri Lanka.
Operators providing digital gambling services are also required to hold a separate digital gambling licence. In addition, applicants must be incorporated or registered under Sri Lanka’s Companies Act.
The legislation also makes it an offence to advertise gambling services that operate in breach of the Act.
Unified Gambling Framework
Sri Lanka’s Gambling Regulatory Authority Act came into force on December 1, 2025. It establishes a unified regulatory framework covering both land-based and online gambling.
The latest website blocking action represents one of the first major enforcement measures taken under the new regime. Meanwhile, authorities move to strengthen oversight of the country’s digital gambling market.
