Brazil establishes interministerial task force to address gambling addiction

The Brazilian federal government has established an interministerial working group to tackle gambling addiction as the country prepares for the launch of its regulated betting and online gaming market on January 1, 2025.

Announced on Monday, the initiative aims to propose measures for prevention, harm reduction, and assistance for individuals and communities affected by problem gambling.  

The working group, comprising representatives from the Ministries of Finance, Health, Sports, and the Secretariat of Social Communication, will work collaboratively over 60 days to develop an action plan. Their responsibilities include reviewing current policies, exploring regulatory options, and recommending interventions to mitigate the risks associated with gambling addiction.

Meetings will be held every two weeks, with the possibility of inviting contributions from other public or private entities, both national and international.  

“The focus is on developing strategies to prevent, mitigate harm, and offer support to individuals and communities affected by compulsive gambling practices or in vulnerable situations, considering the context of fixed-odds betting,” stated the group in a press release.  

The task force's creation coincides with rising public concern over the societal impact of gambling. Critics argue that a lack of regulations during the years-long lead-up to the legal market’s debut has allowed the sector to expand unchecked, fostering addiction and exposing players to harmful practices.  

The Ministry of Finance has already introduced measures to curb gambling-related harm, including banning credit card use for gambling transactions and mandating facial recognition for identity verification. Additionally, restrictions on advertising and safeguards against using social welfare funds for betting are now in effect.  

Despite these efforts, the industry continues to face criticism for its potential financial and social consequences. Concerns persist over the prevalence of illegal gambling, with the National Association of Games and Lotteries reporting that over 2,000 unauthorized betting sites remain active in Brazil.

Attempts to block these platforms have been likened to “mopping up ice” by Carlos Baigorri, president of the National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel), who has called for stronger enforcement powers.  

The federal government has acknowledged that the delay in implementing regulations following the legalization of fixed-odds betting in 2018 contributed to the current challenges. “The lack of clear regulations has allowed the market to expand without proper supervision,” the government stated.  

As part of its mandate, the working group will focus on developing educational campaigns, mental health assistance programs, and protocols for treating gambling-related issues. It will also propose mechanisms for identifying and aiding individuals at risk of addiction, including self-exclusion systems.  

The group’s findings, including a comprehensive action plan, are expected to be presented within 60 days, with the possibility of an extension for further deliberations.