The Ministry of Finance recently published five new ordinances that establish rules for the fixed-odds betting market in Brazil. The measures include requirements for games to be certified and also create more rigorous monitoring and inspection mechanisms. The regulation aims to bring more safety and transparency to the market, making operations safer for both operators and consumers.
The betting sector grossed around R$12 billion in 2023, a significant increase compared to R$7 billion in 2020. This growth is related to the increasing popularity of sports betting, especially driven by the advancement of online platforms. This rapid growth caught the attention of the authorities, who decided to strengthen the rules to ensure that operations are carried out safely and within the law, protecting all those involved.
ToPaula Martin, lawyer specializing in Tax Law and partner atMBC Lawyersthese new rules are an important milestone for the sector. "The ordinances bring more clarity about the responsibilities of operators and ensure that the guidelines of the Ministry of Finance are followed. This creates a safer environment," he states.
Consumer protection and game certification
Among the most significant changes is the requirement that all online games comply with the criteria of Ordinance SPA/MF No. 1,207/2024. Operators need to ensure that bettors know exactly the chances of winning before placing a bet.
Furthermore, Ordinance SPA/MF No. 1,231/2024 requires operators to offer tools to limit the time and value of bets, helping to avoid gambling disorders and protect the mental health of bettors.
“Concerns about health were taken seriously in these ordinances. Creating limits on time and resources available for gambling helps to prevent addiction, allowing for a gambling experience with harm containment,” explains the lawyer.
Monitoring and punishments
The new rules also strengthen sector oversight. Portaria SPA/MF No. 1,225/2024 defines how the government will monitor and ensure that bets are placed legally. Portaria SPA/MF No. 1,233/2024 details the punishment process for companies that do not follow the new rules, with the application of fines and other sanctions depending on the severity of the infractions.
“This reinforcement in supervision is essential to provide greater transparency to the market. In addition, it creates greater confidence among consumers, who can now be sure that they are betting in a legal and safe environment,” highlights Paula.
Finally, Ordinance SPA/MF No. 1,112/2024 establishes clear rules for the funds collected from bets to be transferred to the National Treasury. Operators are required to follow a specific procedure for these transfers, ensuring that everything is done transparently. "These new rules are essential to maintaining the financial balance of the sector, as well as ensuring that companies comply with tax laws," he points out.
Impact on the sector
With the implementation of the new regulations, the fixed-odds betting market in Brazil gains a more robust regulation, aiming to provide greater security for both operators and players.
These ordinances, in addition to establishing clear guidelines for operators, also aim to meet the growing demands for greater consumer protection. According to specialists, it is important that operators strictly adhere to the new rules to ensure that the market continues to grow. "Regulation is an important step, but compliance with the rules by everyone is essential for the sector not only to grow but also to remain sustainable and safe," emphasizes the lawyer.
