Brazil's National Association of Gaming and Lotteries responds to minister’s criticism of betting sector
The National Association of Gaming and Lotteries (ANJL) has issued a formal statement expressing concern over recent comments made by Brazil’s Finance Minister, Fernando Haddad, who referred to the gaming industry as a “disgrace” during an interview with ICL Notícias.
The association, which represents regulated operators including betting houses and related firms, said it was both surprised and dismayed by the minister’s remarks.
In the interview, Haddad raised concerns about the betting industry, aligning with economist Eduardo Moreira in highlighting what they described as systemic problems.
However, ANJL contended that the examples cited in the conversation were drawn entirely from unregulated “Bets,” platforms that are not licensed to operate in Brazil and continue to do so due to a lack of effective enforcement mechanisms.
According to the ANJL, the regulated segment of the market has worked to meet all standards outlined by the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting (SPA) and should not be equated with operators functioning outside the law. “All the problems mentioned in the interview refer to the activities of illegal ‘Bets’,” the statement read.
The association expressed particular concern that Haddad’s comments could damage the industry’s reputation at a time when Brazil is still building its regulatory framework for gaming. ANJL said that for the minister responsible for overseeing the sector’s regulation to make such public statements could have “a highly harmful impact on the market.”
On the topic of gambling addiction, the association said it agrees with Haddad’s view that it should be treated as a public health issue, a position it claims to have consistently supported. However, the statement noted that legal operators already pay taxes that contribute to the healthcare system and emphasized that instances of gambling addiction are rare within the regulated market.
The ANJL also addressed ongoing discussions in Congress around the regulation of betting advertisements. It warned that a total ban on advertising could lead to increased exposure to unlicensed platforms, as seen in other countries with similar restrictions.
Without the ability to communicate responsibly and clearly with bettors, distinguishing between legal and illegal operators would become more difficult, increasing the risk of fraud and scams, the association argues.
Reiterating its position, the association stated that the regulated betting sector aims to provide a safe environment for consumers, framing games as entertainment rather than a financial investment. It called for continued efforts to combat illegal operations rather than rolling back progress made in creating a transparent and monitored industry.
Founded in March 2023, ANJL represents a broad base of companies, including operators such as Superbet, Esportes da Sorte, Aposta Ganha, and Reals Brasil, along with payment institutions like Pagstar and Zero. The association advocates for responsible gaming, the integrity of the sector, and economic contributions to Brazil.