Brazil Rejects New 15% Tax on Licensed Betting Operators
Brazil.– December 12, 2025 – www.zonadeazar.com Brazil’s regulated betting sector has strongly rejected the newly approved 15% contribution on player deposits. Industry groups warn that the measure risks strengthening illegal operators and undermining the sustainability of the formal market.
Overview
The Brazilian Senate’s recent approval of a new 15% levy applied to deposits made by bettors on regulated platforms has triggered significant concern across the industry. Added to the so-called “anti-faction bill,” the tax aims to increase funding for public security but is viewed as a destabilizing measure for a market still consolidating its regulatory framework.
Organizations such as the Brazilian Institute for Responsible Gaming (IBJR) and the National Association of Games and Lotteries (ANJL) have expressed concern about the direct impact on the competitiveness of licensed operators. They argue that the tax alters fundamental market dynamics and imposes disproportionate pressure on both companies and players.
Details / Context
The Senate approved the creation of a 15% Economic Intervention Contribution (CIDE) destined to support efforts against organized crime. This levy is applied to the amount deposited by bettors, adding a new layer of taxation beyond existing regulations.
Sector experts warn that the structure of the tax is misaligned with standard practices for regulated industries. Instead of taxing operator revenue, it directly affects player transactions, potentially reducing market liquidity and discouraging betting activity.
The bill must now return to the Chamber of Deputies due to amendments introduced in the Senate. While this opens the door to revisions, the sector emphasizes that urgency cannot replace the need for a stable and predictable regulatory environment.
Specific Subtopics
🔹 Economic Impact
Operators argue that taxing deposits reduces the financial efficiency of the licensed ecosystem. Lower player liquidity translates into lower betting volume, reduced profitability, and decreased economic viability for companies operating under demanding regulatory conditions.
Additionally, regulatory uncertainty may influence investment decisions of global groups evaluating long-term operations in Brazil. Stability is essential for attracting capital, developing technology, and maintaining qualified teams.
🔹 Risk of Migration to Illegal Markets
Industry representatives warn that the measure could unintentionally strengthen unlicensed platforms. Without tax obligations, illegal operators can offer more attractive conditions, drawing bettors away from the formal market.
Such migration undermines responsible gaming policies, weakens sports integrity mechanisms, and limits the government’s ability to monitor financial flows.
🔹 Regulatory Landscape Under Pressure
The new CIDE tax adds to ongoing discussions about fiscal burdens in the betting sector. Industry organizations insist that regulatory clarity and stable taxation are fundamental pillars for building a strong, transparent, and sustainable market.
Future Outlook
With the bill returning to the Chamber of Deputies, operators hope for a reassessment that considers the economic and social implications raised by the industry. Dialogue between legislators and market leaders will be decisive in shaping the next phase of Brazil’s betting regulation.
A balanced approach—one that supports public security efforts without weakening the formal market—will be essential for ensuring sustainable growth and preventing illegal operators from gaining even more ground.
🔗 Edited by: @_fonta www.zonadeazar.com