Brazil’s journey with betting and gambling legislation has been a tale of gradual acceptance and regulatory adaptation. From early prohibitions to modern legalizations, the country’s approach to gambling has evolved significantly, especially with recent laws that aim to shape the future of betting in Brazil.
Gambling was widely accepted in Brazil until 1946, when, influenced by moral and religious considerations, Decree-Law 9,215 banned all forms of gambling, except for state-run lotteries and horse race betting, at authorized racetracks. This era marked the beginning of a stringent regulatory phase.
The late 20th and early 21st centuries saw the rise and fall of bingo halls and the emergence of online betting. The lack of clear regulations for online gambling led to Brazilians participating in international betting platforms, highlighting the need for updated laws that address the realities of internet-based gambling.
Society and technology began to determine what laws should regulate. As usual.
The approval of Law No. 13,756/2018 legalized sports betting and established the foundation for a regulated betting environment in Brazil. This law represented a shift towards embracing the economic potential of gambling.
The law 14,183/2021 introduced key provisions related to the taxation of betting operations, marked an important step in creating a sustainable economic model for the gambling industry in Brazil. This law aimed to establish a clear fiscal framework, ensuring that gambling revenues started to be taxed.
In recent years, it has become common to see major football clubs being sponsored by the gaming industry. Thus, inspired by United Kingdom regulations, Law 14,790/2023 further expanded the legal framework for gambling in Brazil. It aims to refine the regulatory environment, establish licensing requirements, in addition to updating standards for taxation – which analysts say has a very high tax rate and could result in the continued informality of this industry in Brazil.
Thus, the introduction of Laws 14,183 and 14,790 represents Brazil’s continued efforts to modernize its gambling laws. As Brazil continues to update its legal framework, it will be poised to become a key player in the global gambling industry, offering valuable opportunities for businesses and contributing to the country’s economic development.