Rio de Janeiro, August 2025 – The state of Rio de Janeiro is gearing up for a bold regulatory leap, authorizing the widespread deployment of Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs) and themed sports bar gaming concepts across the city.
Governor Cláudio Castro signed a decree establishing technical, transparency, and safety standards for devices including VLTs, digital kiosks, and Android-based smart POS units, all overseen by the state lottery authority, Loterj. Importantly, all gaming transactions must now be handled via PIX, Brazil’s instant payment platform, ensuring traceability. The system will also include a player registry tied to public and private data to reinforce accountability.
Facilities such as bars and “VLT shops” will now be able to host these terminals—even if their primary business isn’t gaming. These establishments will also serve as sports-themed entertainment venues, offering regulated slot-style gameplay. To maintain integrity, users must log in via QR code multifactor authentication, which includes facial biometrics plus another verification step. Machines must display warnings that gambling is for 18+ only and be internationally certified.
Nas redes sociais, o presidente da Loterj, Hazenclever Lopes Cançado, celebrou a regulamentação. "Este é um marco histórico! Agradeço ao governador Cláudio Castro e à equipe da Loterj pelo empenho. Cada aposta será segura, cada operação fiscalizada, com benefícios sociais e econômicos reais para o Rio", afirmou. Segundo a instituição, o novo sistema deve gerar cerca de 65 mil empregos, além de incentivar o turismo no estado.
Loterj officials characterize the upcoming regulations as a way to position Rio as a global benchmark for responsible gaming, on par with Las Vegas. The initiative emphasizes social return on gaming revenues through transparency, strict oversight, and technological innovation. With regulation now embracing payment traceability via PIX, international-standard certifications, and biometric login measures, Rio is setting the stage for a controlled yet modern casino experience in everyday venues.
