A new bill introduced by Pedro Uczai seeks to completely ban betting in Brazil, targeting all fixed-odds wagering activities across the country.
The proposal would overturn key laws that currently regulate sports betting and iGaming, effectively ending legal operations, advertising, sponsorships, and even payment processing linked to betting platforms. It also calls for strict enforcement, including blocking websites and apps, as well as heavy penalties ranging from large fines to prison sentences.
The move follows stronger rhetoric from President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who recently questioned the social impact of betting, particularly around rising household debt.
The president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, said:
If betting causes the harm that we think it does, why don’t we put an end to betting? Or regulate it so that there aren’t so many bets in Brazil and you can have some, if there is any use.
Supporters of the bill argue it is necessary to protect consumers and public health. However, industry body National Association of Games and Lotteries (ANJL) warned that banning regulated betting could push users toward unlicensed platforms, reducing oversight and player protection.
If passed, the bill would mark a dramatic shift in Brazil’s gambling policy, moving from regulation to a total prohibition model.
