The Municipality of Pucón has set out a tougher framework for the next operator of its casino license, signalling a more assertive stance after Enjoy formally renounced its operating permits in the commune.
Three months after the Superintendence of Casinos of Chile (SCJ) accepted the operator's withdrawal from both Pucón and Coquimbo, the process to re-tender the lucrative license is now moving forward under revised conditions.
Mayor Sebastián Álvarez confirmed that the municipality has submitted a proposal to the SCJ outlining a series of "special conditions" that bidders would be expected to meet.
The goal, according to the mayor, is to ensure that the next concession delivers stronger financial returns and a more tangible contribution to the local economy.
The municipality is requiring a minimum economic guarantee of UF60,000, an inflation-indexed unit used in Chile, equivalent to approximately CLP2.3bn ($2.6m).
Álvarez described the figure as a realistic industry benchmark, noting that it represents at least half of the amount committed in the previous tender process that Enjoy later abandoned.
"While this is a reasonable timeframe, the idea is to be as diligent as possible to prevent the market from being without an operator for a certain period and affecting our local economy," said Álvarez.
Beyond financial guarantees, the proposal places a strong emphasis on community infrastructure.
One of the headline requirements is the construction of a large-scale events venue with capacity for 1,500 people, aimed at strengthening Pucón's position as a destination for conferences, cultural events and entertainment beyond the casino floor.
Labour protection also features prominently. The municipality intends to require any incoming operator to retain at least 80% of the current casino workforce.
The proposal is now under review by the SCJ's Resolutive Council, which holds final authority over the tender conditions and may approve or amend the municipality's demands.
If endorsed, the bidding process is expected to open in March 2026.
Chile has seen growing political pressure on operators, including proposals to tighten advertising rules
