Entre Ríos Expands VLTs and Online Gaming to Modernise Its Lottery
Argentina.- 20 October 2026 | www.zonadeazar.com The Instituto de Ayuda Financiera a la Acción Social (IAFAS), Entre Ríos’ provincial gaming authority, is advancing the modernisation of its gambling offering through video lottery terminals (VLTs) and digital platforms, seeking to strengthen regulated gaming and support social programmes.
Speaking at SiGMA North America 2026 in Mexico City, Carlos Moyano, President of IAFAS, outlined the province’s strategy and emphasised the importance of nationwide cooperation to combat illegal gambling.
A Network of 900 Retail Outlets and 28 Gaming Venues
Moyano explained that the provincial gambling system operates through three principal channels:
- 900 retail outlets offering lottery products, pre-printed tickets and jackpot games.
- Eight casinos and 20 gaming venues, operated directly or through concession agreements.
- An online platform providing slots, casino games and sports betting.
IAFAS is promoting VLTs as part of its technological modernisation strategy, particularly to appeal to new adult audiences.
According to Moyano, these terminals have proved more effective in attracting younger adult players than traditional tombola products.
Concession Model Supports Social Programmes
IAFAS operates its online gambling business through a concession-based model.
Under this structure, the concessionaire manages advertising, customer acquisition, revenue collection and commercial operations, while the institute retains public ownership and supervises compliance with contractual requirements.
Revenue generated through concessions supports several provincial initiatives, including:
- Public security and sports programmes.
- Independent theatre and audiovisual projects.
- Support initiatives for women undertaking unpaid domestic work.
- Problem gambling prevention programmes.
Established in 1972 under Law 5,144, IAFAS maintains a central commitment to directing gambling revenue towards social assistance.
Responsible Gambling and Illegal Market Challenges
The institute operates prevention initiatives including Ludopatía and Jugando Divertidamente, promoting responsible gambling awareness and appropriate technology use.
Moyano also highlighted the difficulties created by Argentina’s 24 independent gambling jurisdictions, which complicate coordinated enforcement against unauthorised operators.
He therefore proposed establishing a national coordination body capable of responding more rapidly to illegal gambling activity while preserving provincial regulatory authority.
Next Steps and Impact
IAFAS’ strategy combines technological innovation, commercial development and social funding, with VLTs and online gaming supporting the modernisation of its regulated offering.
At the same time, the proposal for stronger cooperation between jurisdictions highlights the growing importance of a coordinated response to illegal gambling in Argentina.
The challenge will be to consolidate a framework that encourages innovation, strengthens consumer protection and ensures gambling revenue continues supporting provincial development.
Editó: @fonta
