Brazil Prepares Decree That Could Ban Online Casino Gaming

Brazil's government is preparing a provisional decree that could ban online casino gaming, according to a report by G3 Newswire. The move comes amid growing pressure from President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on the country's betting market.

The proposed ban would apply specifically to casino products and would not affect sports betting or sponsorship arrangements. However, most of Brazil's licensed operators run both casino and betting verticals under the same brand.

Brazil currently has 188 licensed operators. The sector generated 1.95 billion dollars in taxes and licensing fees for the government in 2025.

Decision Expected After Lula Returns From UN Assembly

The decree is expected to be discussed after Lula returns from the United Nations General Assembly, with September 23, 2026, seen as a potential date for the proposal to move forward.

Industry Warns of Legal and Revenue Fallout

Industry representatives said casino products account for around 75 percent of sector revenue. They warned that a ban could trigger legal challenges, reduce tax revenue and limit operators' ability to fund sports sponsorships.

Brazil's regulated betting market only launched at the start of 2025, following years of legislative work to establish a licensing framework. A move to restrict casino verticals so soon after that rollout would mark a significant shift in the government's approach to the sector.