In a notable expansion of Brazil’s betting industry, the Ministry of Finance’s Prizes and Betting Secretariat (SPA) has issued a significant update in the Official Gazette of the Union (DOU). As of this Tuesday, February 12, a total of 37 betting companies have been granted permanent licenses to operate, underscoring a pivotal shift in the regulatory framework. These licenses, which will remain effective until December 31, 2029, represent a major step forward in the controlled expansion of the betting sector.

Key Regulatory Enhancements and Public Engagement

The freshly authorized entities, each contributing R$30 million for operational rights, include well-known names such as H2 Bet, VBET, Vivaro, and many others. This development follows the formal inauguration of the regulated sports betting and online gaming market in Brazil on January 1, 2025. According to iGaming Brazil, the new regulations mandate the use of a “.bet.br” domain and introduce stringent measures to foster responsible gaming and financial security.

With the market’s formal launch, the SPA has enforced rules aimed at curbing structural issues and minimizing betting-related risks. These include banning credit for online bets, mandatory bettor identification via CPF, and advanced financial flow controls, among others. Notably, the imposition of facial recognition technology and an emphasis on responsible gaming practices reflect Brazil’s commitment to safe and lawful betting operations.

Additionally, a public consultation has been launched to shape the regulatory framework for 2025-2026. This initiative, part of a broader effort to refine betting regulations, invites feedback from stakeholders through the Participa + Brasil Platform. The SPA’s proactive approach is highlighted by an upcoming online public hearing slated for February 21, offering a direct platform for discussions on potential regulatory adjustments.

Expanding and refining license permissions:

The awarding of licenses this February marks another layer of development, with 21 more online betting licenses granted, elevating the total count of fully authorized operators to 35. The list includes global giants like Betano and Bet365 and local favorites such as Aposta Ganha and Betsul. These licenses, crucial for legal operation in the newly regulated market, signify a robust validation of the companies’ compliance with Brazilian betting laws.

Amid ongoing adjustments, the SPA has introduced measures to standardize certification processes and alleviate earlier procedural hurdles, as articulated in the new Normative Instruction No 3/2025. These refinements are part of a dynamic regulatory evolution, crafted to align with the sector’s rapid technological advancements.

As Brazil navigates the complexities of a regulated betting environment, the SPA’s efforts in licensing and compliance underscore a broader strategy to foster a transparent and accountable betting ecosystem. With regulatory milestones being met and the sector witnessing sustained growth, the future of betting in Brazil looks both promising and well-governed.