As of January 1, new rules regulating the fixed-odds online betting market are in effect. On December 31, 2024, the ministry published authorization ordinances for 66 companies to operate under the fixed-odds lottery betting model in Brazil.
These companies were authorized by the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting under the Ministry of Finance. In total, R$2 billion (US$ 324m) was collected in licensing fees. According to the ministry, the selection process ensured compliance with technical and financial requirements.
Under the regulations, only operators authorized by the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting are allowed to operate in Brazil.
A milestone for the market
Fabiano Jantalia, a partner at Jantalia Advogados and an expert in gaming law, views the publication of the first authorization ordinances as a historic milestone for Brazil. He highlighted that one of the most significant changes is the requirement for companies to operate from within Brazil.
According to Jantalia, this provision ensures greater consumer protection and enforces operators' obligations.
"This brings more security because if there is a need for judicial or administrative actions, authorities will have a physical address to obtain information or evidence for investigations or legal proceedings. This significantly enhances the ability of Brazilian institutions to enforce compliance with operators' duties and protect consumers’ rights," Jantalia explained.
Key changes for the regulated market
Among the main measures implemented in 2025 are the prohibition of credit-based betting and welcome bonuses. Additionally, bettors are now required to verify their identity through CPF numbers and facial recognition. These actions aim to create a safer environment for users and reinforce the focus on entertainment.
Companies must also provide a consumer support service (SAC) to handle complaints, records, and suggestions.
Furthermore, operators must comply with Brazilian legislation, adhere to anti-money laundering rules, ensure financial security, and promote responsible gaming practices. Non-compliant companies will not be allowed to operate in Brazil and will have their activities terminated.
Consumer impacts
Felipe Crisafulli, a partner at Ambiel Advogados and an expert in sports law and responsible gaming, highlighted that the most significant impact of regulation on consumers is increased legal security.
"With regulation, consumers will have access to all legal remedies offered by Brazilian law when their rights are violated or threatened," Crisafulli explained.
He also emphasized that consumers can now rely on services like Procon and mandatory contact channels on betting sites to resolve issues, ask questions, or address other concerns.
Crisafulli pointed out that regulation also includes measures to protect consumers from gambling addiction.
"This is particularly important for combating pathological gambling addiction and excessive debt, preventing users from falling into an endless betting spiral and incurring immeasurable debts," he added.
"Betting sites must now provide support to prevent users from becoming compulsive gamblers. They are also required to offer self-exclusion or temporary suspension options for users' accounts," Crisafulli concluded.
Impact on operators
Jantalia further noted that authorized companies must have their systems certified and approved by technical entities.
"This ensures their systems are fraud-proof, tamper-proof, and meet the ministry’s requirements. They must also integrate with SIGAP, the Ministry of Finance’s betting management system," Jantalia explained.
Source: Brasil 61
