GMB – When addressing the global gaming sector about the regulated Brazilian market, what was your message to this industry?
Regis Dudena – I think the main message is that Brazil went through a longer-than-desirable period without proper regulation, but since 2023, we have been regulating the market. It is very interesting to see international players looking at Brazil and understanding that we now have rules, controls, and a proper way to provide this service in the country. It’s fascinating to witness the interest of these international actors who attend a massive event like this and often already know about the work we’ve done in Brazil. They are aware of the restrictions, controls, and measures implemented to protect bettors and society while fostering the development of this economic activity.
The key news is this: Brazil has had a fully regulated market since January 1 of this year, thanks to the hard work of public servants at the Ministry of Finance, in cooperation with various other Brazilian state agencies. So, I believe the main takeaway is this: today, Brazil has a regulated market, and those who wish to provide services here are welcome, provided they comply with all these rules.
Do you notice a willingness within the industry to adhere to the excellent work carried out by the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting?
I do. This is evident, especially in the demand for authorizations. We have received a significant number of requests from many serious companies willing to provide services. Of course, we have a thorough vetting process and procedures to ensure compliance with the requirements. But I think what’s evident is this: we see interest from a legitimate market -let’s call it that- of serious companies wanting to provide services under the rules. Naturally, there are still actors who insist on operating outside the law, but we are doing our part to eliminate and distance those who offer services without protecting bettors, paying taxes, or following the rules.
The industry itself has been requesting this for quite some time. Is the SPA meeting that demand?
Yes, in this regard, I think there is clearly a convergence of interests. The Brazilian government is interested in allowing only those who follow the rules to operate, and those who comply with the rules share that interest. So, there’s a clear alignment between the serious players and what we’ve been doing in the Secretariat.
It’s not yet possible to provide figures on this early stage of operations, but how does this regulated market look after 21 days?
It’s still too early to present numbers. However, we intend to organize and share these with Brazilian society. We’re still in the initial phase of collecting this information. As you know, we have a system integrated with the betting platforms that receives daily reports. We are making the necessary adjustments to ensure the system runs smoothly, and soon we’ll begin publishing reports to clarify the market’s size, number of bettors, and other insights. From now on, we will have concrete data instead of mere estimates about the market’s scope.
Is it nice to see Brazil with a regulated market?
I’m pleased because it’s been a tough but essential job. We understand that for this sector to continue to exist, it must be regulated. It needs these boundaries, as we recognize that regulation is the best way to protect, for example, bettors. I’m happy that we can now say, thanks to the efforts of many, that we have regulation. A good regulation that protects bettors and shields the broader economy from a growing market. This event is a tangible demonstration of this market’s vitality.
Secretary, Games Magazine Brasil serves as a bit of a voice for the sector. So, on behalf of the industry, we’d like to thank you for bringing this new era and reality to Brazil.
I thank you for the opportunity to speak with you and with those who genuinely want to contribute, work, abide by the law, and respect the Constitution. That’s what I’m grateful for.
Source: Exclusive GMB
