Gonzalo Pérez: "We want to ensure that the growth of the sector goes hand in hand with player protection"

The CEO of Apuesta Total, Gonzalo Pérez, said that 2024 was a year of "great advances" for the online gaming industry in Peru, from "the consolidation of a clear and structured regulation", which marked a before and after for its development.

In an interview with Yogonet, the businessman emphasized the relevance of responsible gaming and said that it is necessary to "guarantee that the growth of the industry goes hand in hand with the protection of the player and social welfare."

Furthermore, he questioned the Peruvian government's decision to apply the Selective Consumption Tax to online gambling and warned that this "will mean that the State's collection expectations will be drastically reduced."

What is your assessment regarding the Peruvian gaming sector in 2024?

The balance of 2024 has been positive, as it has been a year of great progress. The consolidation of clear and structured regulation has marked a before and after in our industry, allowing operators to act with greater transparency and players to rely on a safer and more competitive market.

This regulatory framework will not only favor the growth of the industry but will also lay the foundations for attracting foreign investment and strengthening the local economy, highlighting Peru as one of the most attractive markets in the region.

Which industry event do you consider the most relevant of the year? Why?

I believe that each event is relevant in its own context, so it is difficult to compare them. However, I could highlight the wisdom of moving the SBC Summit to Lisbon, a vibrant city that gave us all the facilities to have an event of the magnitude that it represents. This year I have been able to attend several events in different countries and cities, and each one has been special in its own context.

I do not want to fail to highlight the soccer events that we have had throughout the year together with the tradeshows. Thanks to the organizer's management, we have been able to visit large stadiums, such as the Allianz Parque in Brazil, which not only generates a different space for us but has also allowed us to contribute to social actions. The expectation for the post-ICE 2025 championship in Barcelona is very high.

What challenges do you identify for the gaming sector with a view to 2025?

The main challenge will be the Selective Consumption Tax, recently enacted and whose base is 1% of bets. Those of us who are in the industry know how harmful this base is and the consequences that this will entail, which will mean that the State's collection expectations will be drastically reduced.

In addition to this tax base, we have the problem of the deadlines, because the entry into force is on January 1, 2025 and the deadlines do not allow us to make the corresponding modifications, certify with the laboratory, and get it approved by the regulator.

2024 was a relevant year in Latin America, with the approval of new regulatory frameworks. What are your expectations for this region?

I see a region that is moving in the right direction, regulating the activity in different jurisdictions and, therefore, strengthening the image of the industry. This is important because when you talk to different actors outside the industry, it is very useful to explain the regional trend to break down the myths that still exist about this activity.

What message do you have for the industry as the year comes to an end?

Looking ahead, I am convinced that the industry has enormous growth potential. The adoption of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence and data analytics, not only allows us to improve the user experience but also helps to build a more efficient and sustainable industry.

Likewise, the focus on responsible gaming must be one, as we want to ensure that industry growth goes hand in hand with player protection and social welfare. The success of the industry depends not only on economic figures, but also on the trust we can generate in our users, our commitment to innovation, and, above all, our responsibility as key players in the development of our countries.