The bill was unanimously approved by Parliament following its review by the Parliamentary Committee on Public Finance.

Lawmakers emphasized that the new Authority is designed to standardize the sector, strengthen compliance requirements such as anti-money laundering measures, and mitigate potential social harm, while supporting tourism and national economic growth.

The timing of the Authority’s establishment is significant, following the August opening of Melco’s City of Dreams Sri Lanka, a 1.2 billion dollar integrated resort that stands as the largest private investment in the country.

Industry experts previously told AGB that Sri Lanka’s broader ambition to position itself as “India’s Macau” depends heavily on consistent regulation and effective governance. The new Gaming Regulatory Authority is viewed as a foundational element in that long-term strategy.