Latest news in online casino and sportsbook regulation in Latin America
Wednesday 22 de May 2019 / 13:32
2 minutos de lectura
(Latin America).- Around the world, the online games of chance industry is constantly growing and many countries are changing their laws to adjust to the peoples’ needs. In Latin America, the games of chance laws are in a grey zone, because several countries authorize this type of practices, while others don’t. There have been changes in time, and we can see in which countries it is legal and in which countries it is not legal.
In this article, we can analyze some of the latest advances and regulations in the Latin American industry, in Argentina, Brazil and Colombia.
In what countries is betting legal?
Several countries have already legalized online betting with the aim to boost the martket and offer novelties to the players. Colombia was the first country in Latin America in legalizing online betting in 2016. Other countries like Mexico, Argentina and Chile have followed its example.
Those countries have performed great contributions to allow its inhabitants to enjoy this type of bets, but it doesn’t mean they do not regulate them strictly. A casino needs an operating license to operate, which is not always easy to obtain. Besides, gaming operators that have already been authorized must continue abiding strict regulations to maintain the operating license in the country.
The Colombian market
Colombia has set the tone in Latin America, and now other countries consider it as a model to follow in order to enter in the market. In 2019, we can see that the best online casinos in Latin America are located in Colombia. Since 2016, 17 new licenses have been granted in the country, and therefore, other countries are analyzing and considering to follow the Colombian model.
Operators in Mexico and Colombia, such as Alternar, have noted that both markets are completely different. As a consequence, it is not so easy for an operator to adapt to the new markets of the countries that are not so advanced within the online games of chance and sportsbooks legalization.
Latest advances
At the end of 2018, one of the most recent Latin American advances took place: the sportsbook legalization in Brazil. Some time ago, there have been attempts to legalize online casinos, but it has not happened so far.
Other big operators could have access to licenses soon, such as Argentina and Peru. If it occurs, it is expected to have a great impact in the Latin American online sportsbooks and games of chance scenario.
What’s next?
The Latin American scenario is constantly changing as soon as people start increasing the potential of high winnings in the industry. Many operators around the world have witnessed the success in Colombia and wish to take advantage of the upcoming and promising country in legalizing these types of bets. It is expected that countries in Argentina, Peru and even Brazil are those to follow in the list to change the regulations. Specially, with the arrival of the new president in Brazil, who is willing to make several changes.
Conclusion
The sportsbooks and online casino industry in Latin America is similar to that in US, where the different states set their own rules and regulations. With the legal sportsbooks in US and more states implementing the regulation at a regional level, it is expected it to continue and generate a domino effect in Latin America.
Categoría:Online Games
Event
G2E - Las Vegas 2025
06 de October 2025
CT Interactive on Innovation, Networking, and Market Growth at G2E 2025
(Las Vegas, SoloAzar Exclusive).- The global gaming industry marked G2E’s 25th anniversary with a major gathering in Las Vegas. CT Interactive stood out for its innovative product development and international growth strategy. Account Manager LATAM at CT Interactive, Roberto Muñoz, shared insights on G2E’s importance, emerging trends, and the company’s collaborative expansion efforts.
Thursday 30 Oct 2025 / 12:00
Atlaslive Explored the Future of Gaming in Latin America at Recent G2E 2025
(Las Vegas, SoloAzar Exclusive).- Bruno Almeida, Head of Sales LATAM at Atlaslive, attended G2E for the first time to explore how land-based and online gaming are converging. His experience highlighted key trends shaping the Latin American market, from immersive casino innovations to strategic networking and regulatory insights.
Monday 27 Oct 2025 / 12:00
G2E 2025: Cristian Galarza, ASAP Director Explains the Importance of Attending the Event
(Las Vegas, SoloAzar Exclusive). - After attending the 25th anniversary edition of G2E in Las Vegas, ASAP’s director shares his perspective on the evolution of the industry, driven by digitalization, efficiency, and the creation of international networks that foster new business opportunities.
Tuesday 28 Oct 2025 / 12:00
SUSCRIBIRSE
Para suscribirse a nuestro newsletter, complete sus datos
Reciba todo el contenido más reciente en su correo electrónico varias veces al mes.

