Mexico's Gaming Market Keeps Gaining Momentum

The Industry Maintains Solid Growth

The gaming market in Mexico continues to consolidate itself as one of the most dynamic in Latin America. According to official data from the Mexican government, the casino, lottery, and gambling sector reached a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of 199,857 million Mexican pesos during the third quarter of 2025, representing a 17.2% increase compared to the previous quarter.

Likewise, the National Statistical Directory of Economic Units (DENUE) 2026 counted 5,357 gambling venues. The highest concentrations are found in Mexico City (565), Yucatán (505), and Jalisco (395).

Data from the Economic Census also shows that the sector's total gross production reached 35,907 million pesos, while total revenues rose to 36,480 million pesos, with Mexico City and Nuevo León standing out as the country's primary markets.

Online Gaming Projects Sustained Growth

In parallel with the brick-and-mortar segment's development, Mexico's online gaming market maintains a outlook for strong expansion.

Industry estimates indicate that its market value will grow from $790 million USD in 2025 to $970 million USD in 2026, eventually surpassing $1.09 billion USD by 2031. This represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.6% between 2026 and 2031.

The market encompasses sports betting, casino games, lotteries, and bingo across desktop and mobile platforms, segmenting its offerings by age group and geographic region.

Digitalization Drives Demand

One of the primary growth drivers is increased internet access and mobile device adoption.

With a population close to 129 million inhabitants, roughly 78.6% of Mexicans use the internet. Meanwhile, the expansion of smartphone usage has facilitated the transition of many players from traditional casinos to digital platforms.

Added to this is the government’s "Internet for All" initiative (Internet para Todos), aimed at expanding broadband coverage across the country, as well as the rapid growth of the fintech ecosystem. In 2023 alone, the fintech sector received $828 million USD in investments, fueling the growth of digital wallets, open banking, and new payment methods that streamline access to gaming platforms.

According to the National Entertainment Industry Council, the gaming sector generates around 150,000 direct jobs in Mexico, consolidating its status as a vital component of the national economy.

Sports Betting Leads the Market

Sports betting remains the dominant segment in online gaming.

In 2025, it accounted for 56.41% of the market and is projected to grow at an annual rate of 17.82% through 2031, driven by the popularity of football (soccer) and FIFA World Cup 2026, which Mexico co-hosted alongside the United States and Canada.

Casino games are also showing sustained growth thanks to the rise of live dealer formats and hybrid experiences that combine in-person interaction with digital betting. Meanwhile, the lottery maintains stable performance due to its deep cultural roots, while bingo seeks revitalization through social and charitable variants targeted at an older demographic.

Workforce Predominantly Female

During the first quarter of 2026, the industry employed 18,400 people, of whom 71.7% were women and 28.3% were men.

Key roles include sales staff, cashiers, ticket agents, bet takers, and commercial supervisors. Chihuahua, Yucatán, and Mexico City account for the largest share of the sector's workforce.

Regulatory Challenges Persist

However, despite these positive prospects, the market continues to face regulatory challenges.

Operators still work under a framework whose core dates back to 1947, even as reforms introduced during 2025 progress.

In an exclusive interview with SoloAzar, Gerardo Ballesteros Félix Díaz, legal specialist in Gaming and Lotteries and managing partner at LC Gaming law firm, explained: "The Federal Law on Games and Lotteries of 1947 and its current regulations establish the reference framework. The fundamental and non-negotiable requirement is obtaining a permit from the Ministry of the Interior (SEGOB), which is the sole authority empowered to authorize, control, and supervise these activities."

Nevertheless, the transition toward an increasingly regulated market—alongside improved digital infrastructure and the expansion of online entertainment—positions Mexico as one of the Latin American gaming industry's highest-potential markets.

Against this backdrop, SiGMA North America 2026 will gather key industry leaders in Mexico City. SoloAzar will provide close coverage of the event with interviews, analysis, and news for its readers. Those planning to attend can still claim a 30% discount on registration by using the code Soloazar30SIGMA, an exclusive benefit for the SoloAzar community.