New Bill on Online Gambling and Betting Advertising in Argentina

The Bill on the Regulation of Advertising of Online Gambling and Betting arises in response to the proliferation of online gambling and betting that, through aggressive advertising campaigns, are negatively impacting the mental health and well-being of adolescents. This legislation aims to fill a legal gap in the current Argentine regulatory framework, which does not specifically address the advertising of these online services.

Background

According to the initiative, in the context of omnipresent digitalization, adolescents are especially vulnerable to the seductive advertising of online gambling and betting. Cyber ​​gambling, a type of pathological addiction to online games, has been identified as a growing public health concern. Constant exposure to aggressive advertising campaigns has been shown to increase the risk of addictive behaviors in young people, who are still in a stage of cognitive and emotional development.

The bill is inspired by successful international regulations and previous experiences in Argentina, such as Law 26.687 on the advertising of tobacco products. Just as the regulation of tobacco managed to reduce youth exposure to its advertising, the new regulations aim to do the same with online gambling.

Key points of the bill

Prohibition of Advertising and Promotion: Advertising and promotion of online gambling through any means of communication is prohibited, including digital media, television, radio and print media. Advertising in artistic and sporting events is also restricted.

Prohibition of Sponsorship: Sponsorship of events or sports teams that attract mainly minors is prohibited. Existing sponsorship contracts must terminate as stipulated without the possibility of renewal.

Age Verification: Operators must implement effective mechanisms to verify the age of users and keep records of these procedures, subject to audits by the competent authority.

Awareness Campaigns: The Executive Branch will promote awareness campaigns on the risks of cyber gambling addiction and the resources available for its prevention and treatment.

Sanctions: Failure to comply with the provisions of the law may result in warnings, fines, and in serious cases, suspension or cancellation of the license to operate online games and bets.

This bill seeks not only to protect the mental health of adolescents, but also to prevent the development of addictions that can have devastating consequences for individuals and their families. By regulating advertising, it is hoped to reduce the normalization of gambling and protect young people from harmful influences.

Inspired by the experiences of countries such as Australia, the United Kingdom, Spain and Belgium, the project aims to establish a safer and more responsible environment for young people, in line with the international commitments assumed by Argentina in the protection of children's rights and the promotion of public health.

If approved, the National Executive Branch must regulate the law within 120 days of its promulgation, and the provinces and the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires are invited to adhere to this regulation.