IBJR Defends Fight Against Illegal Betting Market

Brazil.– May 12, 2026 – www.zonadeazar.com  The Brazilian Institute for Responsible Gaming argues that combating the illegal betting market will be essential to ensure the effectiveness of the Desenrola 2.0 programme. The organisation warns that excessive restrictions on regulated operators could strengthen unlicensed platforms operating outside government oversight.

Overview

IBJR stated that the financial protection measures proposed within Desenrola 2.0 depend directly on a strong crackdown against illegal betting and online gambling platforms. According to the institute, the regulated market already operates under responsible gambling, monitoring and compliance mechanisms that do not exist in the black market.

Details / Context

The statement comes amid ongoing political and economic discussions regarding possible restrictions on indebted consumers participating in the Desenrola 2.0 programme. The institute argues that limiting access to licensed operators could push users towards illegal platforms that operate without consumer protection or regulatory supervision.

IBJR also highlighted data from LCA Consultoria showing that betting activity on licensed platforms represents only a very small percentage of household consumption in Brazil. According to the organisation, the country’s main driver of debt remains the high cost of credit rather than regulated betting activity.

Market Context

Combating illegal betting has become one of the central priorities of Brazil’s regulated gambling industry. Estimates cited by IBJR suggest that unlicensed operators generate approximately BRL 40 billion annually outside the country’s fiscal and regulatory system.

The institute also warned that illegal operators may attempt to take advantage of major sporting events, including the upcoming FIFA World Cup, to attract new users in Brazil. According to IBJR, this could generate significant tax losses and increase risks for vulnerable consumers.

Impact

IBJR’s position reflects a broader trend within the regulated industry, which is increasingly shifting the public debate away from prohibition and towards stronger enforcement against illegal operators. The organisation believes that regulation, financial education and responsible gambling policies must work together to protect consumers.

The debate may also influence future regulatory decisions in Brazil regarding advertising rules, payment controls, user verification systems and the blocking of illegal betting platforms.

Future Outlook

As Brazil continues consolidating its regulated betting market, combating illegal gambling is becoming a central institutional and political issue. Industry stakeholders argue that the long-term sustainability of the sector will depend on the government’s ability to reduce the presence of unlicensed operators and keep betting activity within a regulated and supervised environment.

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