Local authorities can start implementing the first "pilot reopening programs"

Colombian govt. approves biosecurity guidelines for gaming venues

The safety guidelines provide for a limited number of slot machines to allow for social distancing and increased cleaning procedures.
2020-08-11
Reading time 1:12 min
The Ministry of Health has issued a resolution outlining health and safety policies that casinos and bingo halls must include in the adoption of their COVID-19 prevention plans. Under this resolution, local mayors can now begin implementing the first "pilot programs" for the reopening gambling facilities.

According to local authorities, gambling establishments have already been preparing to adopt the necessary health and safety measures and the Ministry's biosecurity guidelines are in line with previous government resolutions and the WHO's recommendations. The protocol complies with the high-quality standards and best practices from countries that have already undergone the worst part of the ongoing global health crisis.

SEE THE FULL RESOLUTION ISSUED BY THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH HERE (Spanish).

Evert Montero Cárdenas, president of local trade association Fecoljuegos said that with the release of the biosecurity guidelines, bingo and casino operators are now ready to "reactivate" the gambling sector. "The mayors of all the country's municipalities can now start implementing the pilot programs authorized by the national government."

"Casino and bingo operators are fully committed to preserving Colombians' health and that is why we have adapted our establishments so we can welcome our collaborators, customers and their families to a healthy and safe environment," Montero Cárdenas explained.

The safety guidelines provide for a limited number of slot machines to allow for social distancing and increased cleaning procedures. The consumption of food and beverages won't be allowed.

There are 2.765 licensed establishments located in 417 of the total 1,122 municipalities within the Colombian territory.

"During the mandatory lockdown and consequent shutdown of casino of halls, the country has lost COP 225,000 M in tax revenue, which in turn meant COP 150,000 M less in proceeds for the national healthcare system, the hardest-hit by the COVID-19 pandemic," Montero Cárdenas concluded.

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