During the 2025 Mexico City GAT Expo, the International Gaming Association (FIJA) was officially established, aiming to integrate the strength of gaming associations from Latin American countries and promote the joint development of the industry. Evert Montero, president of the Colombian FECOLJUEGOS association, was appointed as the first president and declared at the inauguration ceremony that "today is a historic day".
The establishment of FIJA originated from a joint resolution during a regional leaders' meeting at the expo. Initial members included presidents of gaming associations from Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, and representatives from CIBELAE (Ibero-American Lottery and Gaming Corporations). Initially referred to as the "Latin American Opportunity Gaming and Gambling Network" in the meeting, it was officially named the "International Gaming Association" (FIJA) after consultation among founding members.
In his speech, Montero emphasized the common challenges and development needs faced by the gaming industry in Latin America, pointing out that "we not only share common concerns but will also make significant contributions to this organization." He pledged to promote a common agenda, strengthen regional dialogue and cooperation, and welcomed more associations to join FIJA.
The establishment of this union marks a critical step towards a unified representation and collaborative voice for the Latin American gaming industry. In the future, FIJA will focus on enhancing communication with regulatory bodies, increasing the international visibility and influence of the region's gaming industry, and promoting healthy and sustainable industry development.
