Brazil: IBJR Warns Against Proposed Ban on Betting Advertising
Brazil.– February 10, 2026 – www.zonadeazar.com The Instituto Brasileño de Juego Responsable (IBJR) issued a formal statement expressing concern about a Senate bill that would ban advertising, sponsorship and promotion of sports betting and online gambling nationwide in Brazil.
IBJR’s Official Stance
IBJR warns that blanket restrictions on advertising could harm the regulated market by inadvertently strengthening illegal operators that do not operate under state supervision or consumer protections.
According to the institute, advertising plays a key role in regulated sectors, helping bettors identify licensed platforms and understand responsible gaming practices distinct from unlicensed, unregulated alternatives.
The statement also emphasizes that advertising can serve an educational purpose, facilitating the promotion of responsible behaviour, tools like betting limits, self-exclusion, and clear warning messages.
Bill Context and Status
The proposal approved by the Senate’s Science and Technology Committee would amend Brazil’s betting law by banning all forms of commercial communication about betting and online gambling — including ads on TV, radio, internet, social media and public venues like sports and cultural events.
The bill now moves to the Constitution and Justice Committee for further deliberation.
Implications for the Regulated Market
IBJR argues that a complete advertising ban could:
- Reduce visibility of the legal regulated market, making it harder for licensed operators to reach customers responsibly.
- Boost illegal market participation, which remains significant in Brazil and operates without consumer safeguards.
- Limit dissemination of responsible gambling messaging to vulnerable groups.
The institute’s position highlights the ongoing debate on balancing consumer protection with the sustainability and transparency of Brazil’s regulated betting ecosystem.
🔗 Edited by: @_fonta www.zonadeazar.com