Venezuela’s National Commission of Casinos, Bingo Halls and Slot Machines (CNC) ordered operators and licensees to immediately implement electricity and water-saving measures, citing climatic conditions associated with the so-called “Super El Niño” and the official objective of preserving the stability of public utilities. The directive covers casino floors, bingo halls and authorized establishments operating slot machines.
The regulator did not establish mandatory reduction percentages, limits on the number of slot machines that can remain operational, air-conditioning restrictions or changes to commercial opening hours. Nor did it set an expiration date; establishments must apply efficiency protocols while the Electricity and Water Saving Plan remains in force. The CNC also reduced its own in-person operations. Its offices will serve the public only on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:00 a.m. to noon, with no in-person service on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
As of August 2026, the CNC is headed by Edgar Alejandro Melo Rodríguez, who was appointed president of the National Commission of Casinos, Bingo Halls and Slot Machines through Decree No. 5,324, published in Official Gazette No. 43,358 on April 20, 2026. His appointment took effect upon publication of the decree.
The measure affects Venezuela’s regulated land-based gaming market, although the CNC did not publish an individual list of casinos and bingo halls covered by the order. Therefore, historically known establishments such as Casino Maruma, Gran Casino Margarita, Marina Bay Hotel & Casino, Gran Casino Puerto La Cruz, Bingo Tropical, Bingo La Trinidad and Bingo Majestic should not automatically be described as active licensees in August without individual regulatory confirmation.
The industry has faced similar energy controls before. In 2010, the CNC regulated the use of autonomous electricity generation systems at casinos and bingo halls during the country’s energy crisis, introducing technical requirements and inspection mechanisms. Another major precedent came during El Niño in 2016, when Venezuela imposed electricity rationing and consumption restrictions as declining hydroelectric availability put pressure on the power system.
In 2026, however, authorities have not ordered casinos to close or imposed mandatory reductions in gaming machines. The confirmed change is an immediate requirement to improve electricity and water efficiency, remaining in effect until further notice.
