National Horse Racing Commission rejects gambling regulation allegations

Santo Domingo.- The National Horse Racing Commission (CNH) rejected allegations from sports betting associations over the regulation of gambling in the Dominican Republic, arguing that several of the operators behind the complaints are illegally offering virtual horse racing games without the licenses required by the horse racing authority.

CNH President Francisco Pavonessa Grullón said the commission’s actions are based on existing laws governing horse racing and are intended to ensure legal compliance, tax transparency and the protection of the sector’s acquired rights.

The commission also disputed claims that virtual horse racing betting locations have expanded uncontrollably. It said 29,100 licenses have been granted from about 60,000 applications throughout its history, rejecting figures cited by sports betting groups that suggested there are between 70,000 and 150,000 betting outlets. According to the agency, many licensed operations function within existing lottery and sports betting establishments as part of efforts to reduce illegal gambling.

CNH further defended the tax model for virtual horse racing, saying it is based on real-time gross sales, making it one of the country’s most transparent gambling revenue systems.

The commission reiterated its support for the gambling bill currently before Congress, saying the legislation would strengthen oversight, combat illegal gambling and provide greater legal certainty for the industry.