Brazil's SPA Reaffirms Commitment to Responsible Gaming on International Day

Celebrated on February 17th each year, this date was established to raise awareness about the risks associated with betting and to reinforce safer gambling practices.

Carolina Yumi, Deputy Secretary of Prizes and Betting, highlighted the ongoing efforts of the secretariat to establish guidelines that ensure the integrity and transparency of the sector. "Our focus is on ensuring a balanced market where citizens can participate safely and informatively," explained Yumi.

One of the main regulatory tools in Brazil is the SPA/MF Ordinance No. 1231, dated July 31, 2024, known as the Ordinance of Responsible Gaming, Rights, and Duties. This regulation sets clear rules for responsible gaming and regulates the rights and duties of bettors and operators, including the operators' obligations to monitor and protect bettors, prevent health problems related to gaming addiction, and mitigate the risk of over-indebtedness.

The SPA has also implemented several initiatives, such as self-exclusion mechanisms, spending limits, and educational campaigns, in addition to strict surveillance to prevent irregular operations. Additionally, the Interministerial Working Group on Mental Health and the Prevention and Reduction of Harm from Problematic Gaming has been established, involving several ministries and aiming to develop an action plan for prevention and assistance to people affected by problematic gaming behaviors.

The new Regulatory Agenda of the SPA, presented on February 10, 2025, includes the creation of a centralized self-exclusion system as a priority, providing more effective control and greater protection for players. On this International Day of Responsible Gaming, the SPA emphasizes the importance of collaboration among all sector stakeholders to maintain an ethical and sustainable gaming environment, ensuring that gaming remains a form of entertainment without negative impacts on citizens.