The chairman of the Brazilian National Association of Gambling and Lotteries (ANJL), Plínio Lemos Jorge, in an exclusive interview with Focus Gaming News, stated that promoting regulated casino operations would significantly boost tourism development and generate substantial revenue for states and municipalities. He emphasized that the legalization of gambling not only helps attract investments and create jobs but also enhances Brazil's international appeal as a diverse entertainment tourism destination.
Jorge noted that Bill No. 2234 of 2022, expected to be voted on in the Federal Senate in the coming months, aims to fully legalize the gambling industry. Drawing on experiences from other countries, Brazil could significantly expand its economic influence by regulating casinos, bingo halls, online gambling, and animal betting, especially in promoting regions with high tourism potential but low recognition. He stated, "Regulated operations will broaden the government's tax base, inject continuous funds into urban development and public services, and position Brazil among the international hotspots of gambling tourism."
Regarding the persistent issue of illegal gambling, Jorge believes that legalization would greatly enhance government regulatory capacity and tax transparency, achieving more effective responsible gambling management. He cited a DataSenado survey from February to March this year, which showed that 60% of Brazilian respondents support the legalization of gambling regulation. The public generally expects this reform to stimulate employment, improve healthcare and educational facilities, and enhance social security.
In terms of preventing gambling harm, Jorge emphasized the need to establish a compliance framework similar to that of sports betting, including strict adherence to the advertising self-regulation norms set by CONAR and the responsible gambling regulations issued by the Treasury Department's Prizes and Betting Secretariat (SPA), guiding the public to view gambling as entertainment rather than an investment method.
Regarding delays in the legislative process, Jorge candidly admitted that Brazil has already missed out on substantial potential tax revenue and investments. However, he remains optimistic about the eventual passage of the bill, attributing the current delays more to the scheduling of the Senate agenda rather than policy-level obstacles.
