“We are confident this is the optimal time for Brazil”

(Exclusive interview).- Julian Graves shared with Focus Gaming News his insights for the upcoming Brazilian Gaming Congress.

As the president non-executive of gaming division at Clarion Events, Julian Graves is dedicating the last few days before Juegos Miami to the development of exciting details. But Clarion Events is hosting the second Brazilian Gaming Congress to shape the future of the legal industry in the South American country. With the expectations of Brazil becoming the most important market in the region, the president of gaming division is analysing the impact of the event.

How influential will this event be in the shaping of gambling legalisation in Brazil?

We expect the event to be hugely influential given its timing around the new gambling bills. Industry ambassadors plus the main decision makers involved in the process will also be in the room.

All the major bodies will be represented including the Special Commission for the Regulation of Gaming in Brazil from the House of Representatives, the International Centre for Gaming Regulation, COAF and Brazilian Game Institute. Members will also attend from the Chamber of Deputies. The first BgC three years ago acted as a catalyst for the industry to get together and press for legislative changes; we’re hoping the 2nd BgC will further help this progress.

Is Brazilian gambling a sure bet for the industry’s stakeholders?

It’s never a sure bet until the bill is passed, but having monitored the process since 2013, we are confident this is the optimal time as the political will is there to regulate. And that political will is demonstrated by the support we received from some key institutions, and by the confirmed attendance of lawmakers key to the process in Brazil. Industry stakeholders will finally get their reward if the path to regulation on the government side is a smooth one.

We expect the event to be hugely influential given its timing around the new gambling bills. Industry ambassadors plus the main decision makers involved in the process will also be in the room.

Do you believe Brazil’s current political unrest may affect negatively the legislation process connected to gambling?

There was a brief spell of uncertainty initially as it appeared the impeachment proceedings were going to compromise the period for considering the legalisation proposals in the National Congress. I’m told the proceedings are taking all of its attention at the moment, but it also seems to be universally accepted that that the current climate will be resolved in the coming months. Regardless of the result, once the vote on impeachment is out of the way, we can be confident the regulatory framework for gambling will be back to the top of the agenda.

What would be your advice for gaming companies interested in the Brazilian market?

As with any new market entry, gaming companies need to do their homework and understand the needs of the market. Then it’s a case of getting a ringside seat so they have a good vantage point from where to pounce on really good opportunities. Again, there’s never a sure bet, but it’s likely the pace of change, and therefore potential opportunities up for grabs, will be high.

Which gaming sector seems to be more promising in the South American nation?

The current bill gives a lot of focus to bingos and casinos, as a way to bring revenue to the country not only through taxes but also tourism. Online is also given some consideration; however a lot more details need to be worked out before a framework can be created. As things are still a work-in-progress in Brazil, it’s important that the industry engages in the process to advise the lawmakers on the best practice and way forward – for both business and the country.