In a recent interview, Magnho José, president of the Instituto de Jogo Legal in Brazil, provided an in-depth analysis of the current state of the country's gaming market and its main challenges. Since regulation began in January 2025, 153 brands have obtained licenses to operate legally. However, illegal gambling remains a significant hurdle to the full establishment of a regulated market.
José emphasizes the need for stricter policies to eliminate unregulated betting and protect operators who comply with legal requirements. Facial recognition verification is a key measure to ensure transparency and security, but he insists that the government must take stronger action against illegal gambling.
Everyone wants with Brazil, almost!
Regarding the ongoing dispute between state lotteries and the federal government, the case is now in the Supreme Federal Court (STF), which is set to make a crucial ruling in February 2025. This decision will determine whether state lotteries can operate beyond their territorial boundaries.
Looking ahead, José stresses the importance of regulating both online and physical gaming. Brazil is currently the only country that has started its gambling regulation process with online gaming while leaving land-based casinos and bingo halls unregulated. In his view, comprehensive legislation is essential to provide legal security for operators and to eliminate the contradiction of allowing online betting while prohibiting physical gambling.
