Colombia took a historic step by approving Law 2507, which officially recognizes electronic sports (eSports) as a sports discipline within the National Sports System. This regulation establishes a legal framework to structure, regulate, and promote this activity in the country.
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What does the new law in Colombia establish regarding eSports?
The legislation contemplates several fundamental aspects for the development of eSports in Colombia:
- Recognition of competitions: The law recognizes both professional and amateur competitions based on video games, giving official legitimacy to this sporting practice.
- Creation of organizations: Authorities have one year to create leagues, federations, and specialized clubs for electronic sports.
- Prohibition of pay-to-win mechanics: The regulation prohibits systems where players can gain competitive advantages by paying money, ensuring fair conditions for all participants.
Protection and development of electronic sports
The law also establishes protection measures for players, including guidelines on physical health, mental health, age limits, and digital security. Furthermore, it includes incentives for the development of hardware, software, and international alliances.
A growing market
According to industry projections, the video game and eSports industry will generate revenues exceeding 600 million dollars in Colombia by 2025. The country already has specialized venues such as Movistar GameClub and Claro Gamer Center, in addition to events in public spaces and an increase in academic and business initiatives.
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Voices from the sector
Diana Patricia Arenas Blanco, CEO of the Sandbox Foundation, an organization that promotes digital knowledge, highlighted the importance of the measure: “eSports are not just entertainment: they are an industry that generates opportunities, discipline, and collaboration. We understand them as a legitimate space for training for the future.”
The foundation called on stakeholders from the educational, institutional, business, and community ecosystems to articulate efforts and leverage the new regulatory framework to strengthen digital capabilities.
With this law, Colombia positions itself as one of the Latin American countries committed to the regulation and professional growth of electronic sports, recognizing their economic and educational potential.
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