Zona de Azar Brasil – Brazil: Alckmin Says if Regulation Doesn’t Work, Lula Should Ban Betting

Brazil.- October 16, 2024 www.zonadeazar.com The regulation of betting continues to be a topic of much reflection for the federal government.

As we reported earlier this month, President Lula expressed his concern about the sports betting market during a meeting with ministers.

The president stated his desire for betting companies to take responsibility for covering the costs of treatment for people with gambling addiction, and he also mentioned that if the regulation does not produce the desired results, he could ban betting in Brazil.

On the night of Monday, October 14, Vice President and Minister of Industry and Trade Development, Geraldo Alckmin, echoed this sentiment when questioned about betting in Brazil. In an interview with Roda Viva, on TV Cultura, Alckmin said that if the regulation does not succeed, the Lula government should ban the activity in Brazil.

The vice president also commented on the measures the government plans to use to address the issue, stating, “The regulation will be well done and will deliver results. But if necessary, we will ban it.”

“What is being done to prevent abuses? We are talking about R$80 billion in resources that could be used for consumption or investment but are being directed to gambling. The first measure is payment methods: banning the use of credit cards. Another is the legalization of bets. Starting this Friday, Anatel is authorized to shut down 2,000 websites. Another issue is advertising. It’s not acceptable to have ads claiming you can get rich or become a millionaire by betting,” Alckmin said.

The vice president concluded the discussion by emphasizing the government’s concern about the rise of gambling addiction, known as compulsive gambling, the uncontrollable urge to keep betting. Alckmin stressed the importance of regulation.

“The addiction is not just about winning, it’s about playing. Even those who win keep playing. We need regulation,” he concluded.

Watch Geraldo Alckmin’s full interview on Roda Viva below.

Editó: @_fonta www.zonadeazar.com