Draft framework introduces penalties for online gambling, betting and match fixing
Bangladesh Approves Draft Law Targeting Online Gambling and Digital Betting
Bangladesh has approved in principle the draft Gambling Prevention Act 2026, introducing legal provisions to address online gambling, digital betting platforms and related activities through fines and imprisonment.
Bangladesh is moving to establish a new legal framework aimed at addressing the growing spread of online gambling, digital betting platforms and remote wagering activities. The cabinet has approved in principle the draft Gambling Prevention Act 2026, introducing provisions for fines and imprisonment.
The approval came during the tenth cabinet meeting held on Thursday (18 June) at the parliament complex under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
According to the Cabinet Division, advances in technology have accelerated the expansion of both online and offline gambling activities, prompting the government to introduce updated regulatory measures.
The draft law defines multiple gambling-related activities and digital elements, including digital gambling platforms, digital assets, digital wallets, online and remote gambling, betting, bookmakers, totalisators, match fixing and spot fixing.
The government said the proposed legislation updates and modernises the Public Gambling Act of 1867 to reflect the current technological environment.
Under the proposed framework, different categories of offences may carry financial penalties, imprisonment or both depending on the nature of the violation.
The draft will now proceed for legislative and parliamentary vetting before final approval.
//DBTech/BN/MI//
