Ep 685: Colombia’s 19% iGaming Tax Explained

In today’s episode, SBC Media Manager Fernando Noodt is joined by SBC Noticias Editor Lucia Gando and SBC Noticias Business Journalist Damian Martinez as the trio break down Colombia’s newly enforced 19% VAT on online betting deposits and what it signals for the future of the Latin American iGaming market.

With the tax coming into force at the start of 2026, the panel explores why the Colombian government introduced the measure, how it compares to tax changes across Brazil, Mexico, and Peru, and whether operators can realistically absorb the cost or if players will ultimately feel the impact.

The discussion also examines the wider consequences for market competition, the growing risk of illegal gambling platforms, and whether this “temporary” tax could become a permanent fixture in Colombia’s regulatory landscape.

Tune into today’s episode to find out:

• Why Colombia introduced a 19% VAT on player deposits
• How the new tax compares to other Latin American markets
• Whether operators or players will absorb the extra cost
• The risk of market consolidation and operator exits
• What this means for Colombia’s iGaming industry in 2026 and beyond

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Host: Fernando Noodt
Guests: Lucia Gando & Damian Martinez
Producer: Anaya McDonald
Editor: Luke Walters

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