Enjoy, one of Latin America’s largest gaming companies, has confirmed that it will continue its operations at the Casino de Viña del Mar for the next three years. This announcement comes despite the company’s recent request to return its operating licenses for several Chilean casinos, including the renowned Casino de Viña del Mar.
In an official statement, Enjoy emphasized that the ongoing administrative processes do not affect the regular operation of its gaming establishments nor alter its commitments to the Municipality of Viña del Mar and the Regional Government of Valparaíso. The company reiterated its intention to maintain all current local revenue arrangements, aiming to alleviate concerns about its status in the region.
The guarantee from Enjoy follows its official request to the Superintendence of Gambling Casinos (SCJ) to renounce its licenses, which raised alarms among both officials and the public, particularly due to the casino’s significant role in local revenue generation. The Casino de Viña del Mar contributes approximately CLP 22 billion annually, vital for regional growth, with funds being distributed between the Valparaíso Regional Government and the city of Viña del Mar. This financial importance triggered swift political responses to the possibility of operational disruptions.
Nancy Díaz, a city council member and the President of the Tourism and Economic Development Commission, welcomed Enjoy’s announcement but recognized the presence of additional pressing concerns. She commented, “We are conducting the necessary investigations following this statement from Enjoy, to see if it really gives us more peace of mind to be able to rely on these resources. However, we know there’s a bigger issue here.” She stressed the necessity for transparency and accountability, underscoring that local officials must be vigilant to prevent any covert agreements or collusion that could undermine public trust.
Amidst various allegations of collusion within the industry, the Municipality of Viña del Mar criticized Enjoy for returning its license early. Such controversy could potentially tarnish public perception of casino operations and jeopardize a crucial source of municipal revenue.
On legal grounds, Enjoy clarified that renouncing its licenses should not be interpreted as a dereliction of its responsibilities but rather as a legal option permitted under Chilean law and outlined in its contracts. While this decision sparked debate, the company assured its business continuity and obligations would remain intact, at least for the immediate future. The SCJ, which is still reviewing the background of all operators involved in the licensing return process, has not announced a date for the Resolutive Committee to address the issue.
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The announcement also raised concerns among casino employees. Diego Valerio, President of Union N1 at Casino de Viña del Mar, criticized the 2025 government decree allowing casino operators to return their licenses voluntarily. He highlighted the critical need for labor continuity during this transitional period, stating, “Our federation is currently collaborating with the National Directorate and the Subsecretariat of Labor to make sure that future bidding processes respect workers’ rights.” This concern underscores the broader human implications of regulatory changes within the gaming sector, where job security remains a significant issue for many workers.
Looking ahead, Enjoy will maintain its operations at the Casino de Viña del Mar while the regulatory processes unfold. The company’s commitment to continue functioning for the next three years provides some interim stability, yet numerous questions linger regarding transparency, labor rights, and financial viability. As the SCJ deliberates on future actions and potential new bidders, the Casino de Viña del Mar remains a cornerstone of the regional economy, with any developments poised to impact the local community, its residents, and the integrity of the gaming industry in Chile.
Source: YogoNet
