Brazil betting ban: ANJL seeks renewed dialogue with Lula

In Brazil, the betting sector is moving to open talks with the government following Lula's re-election. Provisional Measure 1.394, which took effect last month, cancelled all licensed betting permits. The sector's first goal is to have these authorizations restored.

The National Association of Games and Lotteries (ANJL) congratulated the election result and said it is ready for renewed dialogue. The association believes a democratic and transparent debate is possible despite Lula's criticism of the sector. It says these talks could lead to a solution that revives the market.

The licensed market came to a halt with this decision, 22 months after it was regulated. In 2025 the sector contributed 9.95 billion reais to the state treasury. Before the ban this year, the Federal Revenue Service had collected 11.1 billion reais from gaming and betting. Around 15 billion reais had been expected to be raised by year end.

Following the ban, this revenue has been cut off. Meanwhile, the illegal market has grown by directing bettors to unlicensed sites. These sites offer no player protection, minors can access the platforms, and no taxes are paid. There is also no guarantee that winnings can be withdrawn.