Brazil opens public consultation on eSports regulation to boost transparency

The Brazilian government has launched a public consultation to gather input on the regulation of eSports, including the modality in Ordinance MEsp No. 125/2024, with the aim to create a modern framework that aligns with industry best practices and public expectations. 

The initiative, led by the National Secretary of Sports Betting and Economic Development of Sports, Giovanni Rocco, seeks to enhance transparency and encourage broad participation from various stakeholders. The public consultation encompasses the inclusion of eSports in ‘Bets’ regulations.

Rocco noted that as the eSports sector continues to grow and generate significant economic and social impact, the government aims to incorporate public perspectives into the ordinance.

"With the growth of the eSports sector and its economic and social impact, we seek to understand which modalities civil society envisions for the ordinance and which criteria they suggest should be adopted," Rocco stated.  

The consultation process is designed to assess the feasibility and implications of formally integrating eSports into the regulatory framework. A structured form, consisting of targeted questions, has been made available to facilitate public feedback and provide insights into potential regulatory adjustments.

"With the responses obtained, the Ministry will be able to evaluate adjustments to the current ordinance, with the aim of aligning it with society's expectations," Rocco added.

Interested participants can access the consultation through the Participa + Brasil platform. The form will be open for submissions until March 5, 2025, allowing industry professionals, eSports enthusiasts, and other members of the public to contribute to the discussion. 

Meanwhile, earlier this week, The State Lottery of Rio de Janeiro (Loterj) ordered an immediate suspension of all state-licensed betting operations outside the state’s borders, following a ruling by Brazil’s Supreme Federal Court (STF).

The decision, issued by Justice André Mendonça, requires Loterj to enforce territorial restrictions on accredited operators, referred to as “Bets”, ensuring that wagering activity is conducted strictly within Rio de Janeiro.