Brazil Gathers States to Coordinate Future Betting Regulation System
Brazil’s federal gambling regulator — SPA (Secretariat of Prizes and Betting) — invited representatives from all states to a meeting at the Ministry of Finance on April 4.
The main goal of the meeting is to align the principles of the future national betting regulation system, which will unify disparate regional practices into a single federal structure.
Goals of Creating a Unified System
The creation of a national betting regulation system aims to enhance the effectiveness of controlling the gambling market in Brazil.
The introduction of a unified federal approach should simplify monitoring responsible gambling and strengthen anti-money laundering measures.
Another key focus will be preventing match-fixing and creating a transparent database for all market participants. This will allow for improved monitoring and easier compliance with legislation.
The Importance of a Unified Approach
Until now, betting regulation in Brazil has been fragmented and carried out at the state level, which created certain difficulties for control.
For example, recently, the country’s Supreme Court limited the licensing of bookmakers at the state level and placed this process under federal control.
Currently, SPA is actively developing the agenda for 2025-2026. As part of this process, new standards for effective industry control are planned to be introduced.
What is Being Discussed at the Meeting?
On April 4, several key issues will be discussed at the meeting:
- Centralization of Regulation — Developing common federal rules to be applied across the country.
- Responsible Gambling — Standards aimed at ensuring safe conditions for players.
- Counteracting Fraud — Including the fight against match-fixing and money laundering.
Challenges in the Integration Process
Despite the push for regulatory unification, the process has faced challenges. For example, disputes have recently arisen between federal authorities and local government bodies.
One such case was a dispute over the powers of the Rio de Janeiro Lottery (Loterj), which attempted to allow operators to accept bets nationwide. The Supreme Court limited the Lottery’s actions, ruling that it could only license operators within the state of Rio de Janeiro.
Moreover, the disputes have reached the municipal level. Recently, the Solidarity Party demanded the suspension of local lotteries until the Supreme Court made a final ruling. However, the court rejected the request and decided to request additional evidence.
Future Predictions
SPA is concluding the development of its agenda for 2025-2026, within which the creation of a unified betting regulation system in Brazil will play an important role.
It is expected that the unified system will help eliminate disagreements between different levels of government and increase transparency in gambling regulation.
SPA has already completed public consultations, and the final steps for implementing the system are scheduled for discussion on April 4.