Sri Lanka passes bill to set up Casino regulator

Sri Lanka’s parliament passed a bill to set up a casino regulator, shortly after the first international casino franchise, Melco, set up shop in the island.

The bill was passed unanimously with amendments.

The regulator will ensure that casinos operate according to rules and concerns about money laundering is also addressed, Deputy Economic Development Miniter Anil Jayantha Fernando told parliament.

The regulator will license the casinos and ensure they comply with rules. Existing casinos have been given time to come under the regulator.

Sri Lanka has also set up a 50 dollar fee for locals to enter casinos under the regulations.