Parliamentary elections could define future of gaming in Brazil

The election of the presidents in the Brazilian Senate and Chamber of Deputies on Monday could be key for the future of gambling legalisation.

Brazil.- February 1 could be a key day for the legalisation of gambling in Brazil, as both the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate elect new presidents.

Candidates for the roles include several opponents of the sector but the favourites to win, Arthur Lira (PP-AL) and Rodrigo Pacheco (DEM-MG), are advocates of legal gaming.

If they are elected, 2021 could be the year in which the regulated gambling market in Latin America’s largest country finally opens.

After the vote, parliament will begin its new session on February 3 at 4pm (Brazilian time), so news on potential legalisation could come soon.

Opposition to gaming in Brazil

The worst scenario for the industry would be the election of candidates opposed to the legalisation gambling.

Simone Tebet (MDB-MS), Rodrigo Pacheco’s main opponent for the senate presidency, is particularly opposed to the sector.

The senator told NL Data: “I am radically against this controversial bill, which will open the door to tax evasion, exchange evasion and political corruption.”

For now, the country remains divided on whether or not to legalise gambling. Even those in favour are divided over how it should be introduced, whether through casinos or integrated resorts.