Brazil announced two new ordinances in early July, aiming to reshape how fixed-odds betting advertisements operate within the country. The ordinances, SPA/MF No. 1,964/2026 and Interministerial Ordinance MF/SECOM/MJSP No. 73/2026, both seek to bolster consumer protection while regulating the burgeoning betting market’s communication strategies. These measures, introduced by the Brazilian Federal Government, reflect a concerted effort to mitigate gambling’s social and economic repercussions.
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Details of the New Ordinances
On July 3, 2026, SPA/MF Ordinance No. 1,964/2026 took effect under the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting of the Ministry of Finance. It mandates that all betting advertisements must feature standardized warning messages like “Betting can cause addiction” and “Betting isn’t an investment” in a clear, horizontal format that covers at least 10% of the ad’s area. This requirement aims to consistently remind consumers of gambling risks, promoting transparency in a sector often seen as glamorous. A week later, Interministerial Ordinance No. Still, 73/2026 expanded the regulatory framework, establishing broad rules for all betting-related advertising. But this ordinance, supported by the Ministries of Finance, Justice, Public Security, and the Secretariat of Social Communication, prohibits misleading advertising and restricts the promotion of unauthorized operators. Still, it also sets special protections for minors and vulnerable groups, with enforcement shared among bodies like Senacon/MJSP and the National Secretariat for Digital Rights.
Industry Reactions and Challenges
According to Valter Delfraro, Oddsgate’s director of Regulatory Affairs, while these regulations align with consumer protection goals, they run the risk of overly restricting industry communication. “Oversight is crucial, but there’s a fine line between regulation and censorship,” Delfraro remarked, emphasizing the importance of maintaining open dialogue about gambling. The ordinances demand accountability from companies and media agents, aligning the sector with Brazil’s Consumer Protection Code. But here’s the catch: overly stringent measures could drive betting discussions underground, pushing consumers toward the black market. This isn’t just conjecture — it’s a pattern seen in other jurisdictions.
Regulatory Context and Market Impact
Brazil’s approach mirrors global trends where markets are tightening advertising rules amid rising gambling participation. The country’s digital betting access is booming, making regulatory oversight imperative. Yet, completely sidelining open discussion could entrench gambling in informal and less regulated spaces. Industry data shows that countries investing heavily in educational campaigns and responsible gambling have been successful in reducing addiction without stifling legal activity. This dual approach — regulation paired with education — is often cited as the gold standard.
Risks of Over-Regulation
While Brazil’s regulations aim to protect consumers, they also highlight a major risk: driving the market underground. The illegal betting scene thrives in the absence of transparent, regulated alternatives. With more restrictive rules, consumers may find themselves drawn to unregulated platforms, amplifying the very risks the ordinances aim to reduce. The decision for Brazil isn’t about whether betting should exist — it already does. It’s about choosing between a regulated framework with oversight and consumer protections or inadvertently bolstering the informal sector by making legal betting too cumbersome. The next step? Brazilian authorities will need to balance these new regulations with educational campaigns and ongoing dialogue with stakeholders. Discussions on potential revisions to these ordinances could surface as early as Q4 2026, aiming to adjust the balance between effective oversight and practical industry operation.
Garry Sputnim is a seasoned journalist and storyteller with over a decade of experience in the trenches of global news. With a keen eye for uncovering stories that resonate, Alex has reported from over 30 countries, bringing light to untold narratives and the human faces behind the headlines. Specializing in investigative journalism, Garry has a knack for technology and social justice issues, weaving compelling narratives that bridge tech and humanity. Outside the newsroom, Garry is an avid rock climber and podcast host, exploring stories of resilience and innovation.
