Brazil’s government is considering new restrictions on online betting, with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva calling for tougher measures less than two years after the regulated market opened.
The government is looking at a Provisional Measure (MP) that could take effect immediately, and although the proposal is still being discussed, one option is to ban online casino games, while tighter rules for betting advertising are also being considered.
The issue was discussed during a meeting at the Planalto Palace on September 1, 2026, during which President Lula said that the government needed to take a stricter approach on betting after hearing from representatives of civil society.
President Lula’s team later commented:
“Since taking office, we have decided to tackle this problem responsibly. We have regulated the sector, stepped up enforcement, taken down tens of thousands of illegal websites, introduced self-exclusion, and strengthened prevention and care through the SUS for those who have lost control over their gambling.”
Advertising is one of the areas under review. A proposal already before Congress would introduce further restrictions on betting promotions, including rules affecting sponsorships and advertising linked to sports.
Lula hasn’t yet decided which measures will be introduced, but a provisional Measure is being considered because it would allow the government to put new rules into effect without waiting for a full congressional vote, although Congress would still need to approve it for the measure to remain in force.
The timing is also important, with Brazil’s general election scheduled for October 2026 and the government facing pressure to address concerns around betting before the vote.
