Bangladesh’s Cabinet has approved in principle the draft Gambling Prevention Act 2026. This proposed law is designed to modernize the country’s gambling regulations. In addition, it addresses the growing challenges posed by online and technology-driven gambling activities.
The legislation is set to replace the Public Gambling Act of 1867. Authorities consider the older law outdated and insufficient for regulating modern gambling activities.
Modernizing Gambling Regulations
The government said the new bill reflects the rapid growth of digital technologies and the expansion of both online and offline gambling.
The proposed framework introduces clear legal definitions for a wider range of gambling-related activities. These include online gambling, remote gambling, digital gambling platforms, digital wallets, bookmakers, betting, match-fixing, and spot-fixing.
By expanding the scope of regulated activities, the legislation aims to provide authorities with stronger tools. As a result, they can address gambling-related offenses in the digital era.
Wider Coverage of Gambling Activities
The draft law extends beyond traditional gambling by including activities linked to sports betting and event manipulation.
Definitions covering bookmakers, betting operations, match-fixing, and spot-fixing are intended to strengthen enforcement against gambling-related misconduct. Additionally, these definitions address integrity violations in sports.
The bill also brings digital payment methods and online transactions within its regulatory framework. This reflects the increasing use of technology in gambling operations.
Penalties and Enforcement
The proposed legislation includes provisions for fines and imprisonment, with penalties varying depending on the nature and severity of the violation.
Authorities have not yet released full details of the enforcement framework. This is because the draft remains subject to further legal review before advancing through the legislative process.
Next Steps
The draft was approved during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. It will now undergo final legal scrutiny before moving to the next stage of the legislative process.
The approval marks a significant step toward updating Bangladesh’s gambling laws. These laws have remained largely unchanged for more than 150 years.
If enacted, the Gambling Prevention Act 2026 will establish a new legal framework for regulating online and offline gambling activities. At the same time, it addresses emerging challenges associated with digital betting platforms and related technologies.
