"It is undeniable that online gambling represents an opportunity for the Colombian industry"

What is the role Coljuegos will play at FADJA 2018? What differences can be expected with respect to previous editions?

It has always been of crucial importance to Coljuegos to join this major event and this year will not be the exception. On this occasion, we will be present with all our technical staff to provide information to operators and attendees. We have very good news to share with all Colombians.

What specific consequences will Colombia's recent regulation of online gambling have? Do you see it as one of the main pillars of this year's edition of FADJA? What could be the other key issues of this edition?

The recent regulation of online gambling made Colombia an international benchmark in the gambling industry. Undoubtedly, this fact adds to the evolution that is taking place in the gaming portfolio in general. While today there is a subsector of permanent gambling and lotteries that is strengthening and a land-based gambling sector that is growing, there is also an innovative online activity. All of this means more jobs, increase in foreign investment, innovation and, of course, licensing rights in greater proportions that serve to finance the health sector in Colombia.

What expectations does FADJA create in terms of trends, future paths, and consensus in the regional gaming industry?

The gambling industry calls for meeting points to create consensus regarding needs well-known by all. Greater competitiveness, innovation, and improvement in terms of reputation. All spaces for dialogue should be welcomed, such as trade shows, summits and any other efforts to unite such a valuable industry. Our expectations with this type of events always revolve around constructive proposals that help us to continue strengthening the sector for the benefit of the country.

What role does the notion of "Responsible Gambling" fulfill in FADJA? How will it be reflected in the show?

Legal and responsible gambling comes first in our public policy actions. During the last year, we have been touring the country to promote a series of Pacts for Legality with governors and mayors that allow us to join efforts in that regard. We are carrying out communicational campaigns to raise awareness about the fact that games of chance are an entertainment activity that contribute to the financing of Colombians' health.

On March 6, the term to implement Coljuegos seals ran out. What level of adherence did it have? How do you evaluate the market response to measures like that, as well as the national slots inventory?

From Coljuegos, we are leading a strategy called "Legal Gambling Means Betting on Health", through which we coordinate the efforts of the National Government, National Police, unions, operators and territorial entities to promote legal gambling. As part of this strategy, we have created a seal to identify our fight against illegality, to keep control over inventories and to contribute to the organized and modern monitoring of slots authorized by Coljuegos.

What is your overall view on currently regulated online gambling market so far? Do you still keep your goal of 20 licenses for the World Cup?

When we started to create the online gambling regulations in Colombia, many told us it was pointless. However, after more than one year, we managed to have nine authorized operators and, by the end of this year, we expect that number to amount to twenty. Colombia is a country that opened its doors to the online market, which has a major growth potential and a population with a large Internet coverage. It is undeniable that online gambling represents an opportunity for the industry.