Portugal has a history with casinos, having the largest one in Europe (Casino Estoril) as one of its many tourist places, an imposing building in front of a beautiful beach. Even a James Bond movie was shot on that location.
But with the advancement of technology and the rise of sports betting sites and online casinos, Portugal was able to think about how to take advantage of the changing times to create jobs, tax money and a safer environment for its players.
The question then is: can’t Brazil do the same?
The Gaming Law imposed in Brazil dates from the 1940s. It was through it that several casinos closed at that time and until today all the discussion about gaming is little discussed and thought.
However, this legislation obviously does not address the internet and sites hosted in other countries. That's why Brazilian players can perfectly create an account, make their sports bets or play on a virtual roulette, win and withdraw their profits to a national bank account. The same happens with deposits, which can be done by credit cards or even bank transfer.
That is, all the benefits of the product can be used by the Brazilian, but without the legal security that other countries make available.
And since the country is in this situation where everything can be done and bookmakers sponsor sporting events, would not it be better to take this world out of illegality?
Portugal shows Brazil that the answer is “yes”. With the change that took place in the legislation in 2015, many of the betting firms that operated in the country had to adapt or stop working. Having fewer options is obviously not ideal, but the benefits are several.
The operation of an online casino in Portugal or a bookmaker is now only allowed with a license, issued by the Service of Inspection and Regulation of Games (SRIJ). Among the obligations of the company are the safety of the platform, fair play, payment of taxes and the offer of safe payment methods.
All this would benefit Brazilian players, who have access to secure systems of reliable companies, but may also fall into others that are not. And the payment of taxes can generate more funds to invest in health, education, transportation, and other areas that need it.
And, of course, without illegality the market will also attract more customers, who will feel more confident to set up an account and play. Of course, always with responsibility.
All the possibility of gains and entry of revenues has already been in the sights of some deputies, however, the project of regulation of the world of sports betting and online casinos is stopped in the Congress.
Here it is not worth entering into the merit of whether gaming is something positive or not, after all this is a matter of opinion. Even if only one legislation on online gambling is passed or physical casinos are allowed again, both will help in creating jobs, generating tax and security for everyone involved. This is something that can not argue against.
In times of change in the Presidency and seats in Congress, the issue does not seem to be among the top priorities. However, smart legislation that does not restrict companies and does not worsen the usability of players is a guarantee of improvement and cash on hand. Thus, it is important to be intelligent in this matter and to demand that the representatives think and create a law that makes sense for the sector.
The example of Portugal is right there, and shows how addressing issues clearly can be positive and profitable.
Source: GMB / Surgiu
