The president of Ecuador Daniel Noboa could legalize the game in the next referendum
The president of Ecuador Daniel Noboa paved the way for the reintroduction of casinos and play rooms, as part of a large-scale referendum on key issues surrounding the game for the South American nation.
The leader insists that the game activity will be limited to five -star hotels, with a 25% tax applied to finance social programs, including school meals and children’s malnutrition.
In a detailed communication on the Elon Musk social media platform, Noboa stressed that several problems would be resolved in the referendum proposed “popular consultation” (popular consultation).
“Today, we are making a new step: a popular consultation that raises questions on the problems which, for years, have been popular interest and have an urgent need for change,” he said.
“These 7 questions give citizens the power to choose, once and for all, that we, as a nation, want to bury the past and embrace with hope a future of peace and development.”
The question on the game could lead to the legalization of any form of game for the first time in 14 years.
It is expected that the plebiscite could take place on December 14, but a legal and constitutional process must be followed, due to potential modifications to the Constitution, pending the outcome of the vote.
From the start of this political project, we are fighting for justice and progress, to do the right thing about the comfort, the law on the traditional and the courageous of the complacency.
Every day, we receive criticism, especially those who are more distant from people, those who …
– Daniel Noboa Azin (@danieloboaok) August 5, 2025
Prohibition of equator games of chance since 2011
The game houses, including casinos, have been prohibited in equator since 2011, following a referendum during the mandate of the 45th president of the equator, Rafael Correa.
Noboa took office in November 2023, becoming the 48th head of state.
At the time, a social and moral question was asked to the public, the game considered as causing financial damage and contributing to the product of organized crime.
7. Do you agree with allowing the Operation of Game Rooms and Casinos Dedicated To Gambling in Hotels Categorized With Five Stars, Who Will Deliver To The State A Tribute of Twenty and Five Percent (25 %) Of Their Sales for this Activity, for the … for the … for the … for the … for the … for the … for the … for the … for the … for the … for the … for the … for the … for the … for the … for the … The … for the … for the …
– Daniel Noboa Azin (@danieloboaok) August 5, 2025
There will still be an important opposition this time, with concerns concerning the social impact on families, finances and well-being, but the supporters will say the need for reform.
Supporters argue that the casino and game activity will be limited to exclusive locations, offering a precious outlet for tourist expenses as well as the performance of significant tax income.
It will also create a job in controlled installations, while providing a regulated outlet for demand, moving away people from illegal underground activity.
Image credit: Presidency of the Republic of Ecuador / Creative Commons 4.0
The president of Ecuador Daniel Noboa could legalize the game in the next referendum appeared first on Readwrite.
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