Mexico Moves Closer to Approving 50% Gambling Tax

Mexico.– October 30, 2025 – www.zonadeazar.com The Mexican government has taken another decisive step toward implementing a 50% tax on online betting and gaming operations, a measure that could reshape the country’s entertainment and digital gaming landscape.

The initiative, driven by the National Congress, seeks to increase fiscal revenue and strengthen state oversight of the iGaming sector. However, experts warn that the proposal could undermine the regulated market and encourage migration to unlicensed platforms.

Overview

The Ministry of Finance (SHCP) and the Budget Committee of Congress confirmed that the bill is in its final legislative review phase, with strong backing from conservative government factions.
If approved, the measure would double the current tax rate applied to gaming operators — from roughly 25% to 50%.

According to the draft, the additional revenue would be allocated to social programs, education, and public health, as the government frames the tax hike as a tool for redistribution and social benefit.

Details and Context

The industry has voiced serious concern over the potential consequences of such a drastic fiscal increase. Operators argue that it would reduce competitiveness, raise operational costs, and discourage foreign investment in Mexico.

Sources quoted by NEXT.io noted that “a significant portion of the regulated ecosystem could become unsustainable, creating room for illegal operators.”

Recent economic projections estimate potential losses of more than 5,000 direct jobs and a 35% decrease in effective revenue if players shift toward unregulated alternatives.

Institutional Perspective

The Mexican Association of Betting and Entertainment (AMAE) has called for an urgent roundtable with the government, arguing that “effective regulation is built through incentives to formalization, not through excessive taxation.”

Meanwhile, major international operators such as Betsson, Codere, and Entain are reportedly reviewing their local strategies in anticipation of the bill’s potential approval without amendments.

Future Outlook

If enacted, analysts predict the reform would transform Mexico from one of Latin America’s fastest-growing iGaming markets into one of the most challenging regulatory environments in the region.

The final congressional vote is expected in mid-November, a decision that could define the country’s gaming industry trajectory for years to come.

🔗 Edited by: @_fonta www.zonadeazar.com