Watch: ABRAJOGO as the voice of Brazil’s iGaming industry
Brazil has been quickly adapting to the growth of digital platforms in the iGaming sector, making it a prime destination for operators seeking to expand their markets. With the increasing popularity of smartphones and internet access, the Brazilian iGaming industry is demonstrating significant potential for further growth.
The Brazilian Association of Online Gambling (ABRAJOGO) is one of the pioneering iGaming associations created for the Brazilian market. Stemming from its mission to be the industry’s voice in the government, the association has operated in the industry since its founding in 2019.
SiGMA Europe 2024 featured a thought-provoking panel discussion that brought together esteemed industry experts Alessandro Valente (Co-Founder of Super Afiliados), Pedrão Bet (Director at Aposta Online), and Witoldo Hendrich (Founder of Online IPS). The panel analysed the critical role of ABRAJOGO in bridging the communication gap between the gaming sector and the Brazilian government. The speakers shared their insights on how ABRAJOGO advocates for the industry’s needs and promotes a responsible approach to gaming, emphasising its importance in shaping policy and promoting a collaborative relationship with government authorities.
Rising from slumber
The Brazilian iGaming industry has experienced a remarkable rebirth, emerging from a long period of dormancy to become one of the largest and most dynamic gambling markets globally since 2023. Latin America is flourishing as a hub of opportunities for iGaming enterprises, and Brazil is truly realising its potential in this dynamic sector, exceeding expectations.
The Brazilian iGaming sector is anticipated to generate a staggering Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) of $1.58 billion in 2023. Furthermore, experts forecast that this remarkable growth will continue, with the sector expected to reach an astounding $3.2 billion by 2027, as reported by SCCG. This trajectory signifies not only the potential of the market but also the evolving preferences of consumers and advancements in technology that are driving this exciting industry forward.
Legalisation of Brazil’s online betting market
Brazil officially launched its long-awaited legal online betting market on 1 January 2025. 14 companies received full authorisation to operate, and 52 companies were granted provisional licences, indicating that certain issues must be resolved before they can begin their operations.
This significant milestone comes after a lengthy process that began when the national congress approved legislation for online betting in November 2018. Outgoing President Michel Temer signed the law the following month. However, it wasn’t until December 2023 that the Chamber of Deputies gave the law its final approval.
In 2024, the SPA (Sports and Games Authority) released a series of regulations to inform operators about the rules they must follow to obtain a licence.
Looking ahead
As Brazil begins 2025 with its new rules for fixed-odds betting, the country faces both opportunities for growth and the challenges of regulating the industry. This year will be crucial as everyone involved prepares to tackle various issues that may come up in this developing market.
Regis Dudena, the Secretary of Prizes and Betting at the Ministry of Finance, highlighted the authorisation of this transition, stating, “The country is taking a fundamental step to address the potential problems associated with the sector. The conclusion of the regulation and the successful completion of the initial round of authorisations place fixed-odds bets offered nationwide under state control.”
Dudena’s remarks convey a sense of optimism about the regulatory framework that aims to promote fairness and accountability in the market while also asserting governmental oversight to mitigate risks associated with betting activities throughout the region.
Stay tuned for more captivating content from the industry, including in-depth interviews and exciting events on SiGMA TV. Don’t miss out on the latest insights and discussions shaping the sector’s future!