Bangladesh’s Cabinet has approved a draft law that would replace the country’s 159-year-old gambling legislation and introduce new measures to tackle online and offline betting activities.
The proposed Gambling Prevention Act, 2026, received in-principle approval from the Cabinet and is set to replace the Public Gambling Act, 1867, which has remained the country’s primary gambling law since the colonial era.
The government said the new legislation was drafted in response to the rapid growth of technology-driven gambling activities, including online betting platforms and digital payment systems. Authorities said the law is intended to strengthen oversight, maintain public order and address the social and economic impact of gambling.
Law targets modern gambling activities
The proposed legislation introduces detailed definitions for a wide range of gambling-related activities and technologies that were not covered under the existing law.
The draft defines gambling, gambling premises, gambling equipment, digital assets, digital gambling platforms, digital wallets, betting, bookmakers, online gambling, remote gambling, totalisators, match-fixing and spot-fixing.
By clearly defining these terms, the government aims to strengthen enforcement efforts against both physical and digital gambling operations.
Local reports said the law would also establish penalties for offences linked to illegal gambling activities, with punishments varying according to the nature and severity of violations.
Government seeks stronger regulatory framework
Officials said the existing 1867 law is no longer sufficient to address modern gambling methods that rely on internet-based platforms and digital transactions.
The government stated that the proposed law seeks to reduce criminal activities associated with gambling, prevent socio-economic and psychological harm, and protect the country’s overall economic and social stability.
The legislation forms part of a broader effort by Bangladesh to modernise laws that have become outdated due to technological developments and changing consumer behaviour.
Bill heads to parliament
The draft law will now be reviewed by the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division before being submitted to Parliament for consideration and approval.
Earlier this year, government officials indicated that work on a new gambling law was nearing completion as authorities looked to address the growing presence of online betting platforms operating in the country.
Gambling remains largely prohibited in Bangladesh. However, certain forms of betting, including some horse-race wagering activities and government-authorised lottery products, are permitted under existing regulations.
If approved by Parliament, the Gambling Prevention Act, 2026, would mark the most significant overhaul of Bangladesh’s gambling laws in more than a century and provide authorities with an updated legal framework to regulate gambling activities in the digital era.
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