Land-Based Casino Regulation in LATAM: A Strategic Outlook for Growth, by EGT

How Legal Frameworks Are Shaping Opportunities in Brazil, Panama, Argentina and Colombia:

As a global leader in the design and manufacture of gaming equipment, EGT has built a strong presence across Latin America’s land-based casino sector, with a growing portfolio of cabinets, multiplayers, jackpot systems, and casino management tools that fit the local tastes. Some of the best-selling products on the market include the Jackpot Bell Link, as well as cabinets from the General series such as G 32-32 VIP, G 55 C VIP, G 50-50 VIP, G 50 J2 SТ, and G 50 C SТ. EGT supports operators in delivering top-tier player experiences while maintaining regulatory compliance.

In Latin America, land-based casino regulation varies widely – ranging from mature, well-regulated systems to fragmented or evolving systems. As countries in the region look to modernize gaming laws and boost government revenue, understanding each market’s legal structure is essential. Here, we provide a strategic overview of four key LATAM markets: Brazil, Panama, Argentina and Colombia.

Brazil: A Regional Game-Changer in the Making

While land-based casinos have been prohibited in Brazil since 1946 (with limited exceptions like lottery and bingo), momentum for legalization has reached unprecedented levels. The long-anticipated Bill PL 2,234/2022, which would legalize integrated resort casinos, bingo halls, jogo do bicho, and horse racing facilities, was on the Senate’s July 8 agenda. However, the vote was postponed due to low attendance and ongoing resistance within Congress.

No new date has been confirmed, but Senate leadership has publicly stated their intention to revisit the bill once broader participation and political alignment are secured.

Despite the delay, regulatory reform remains on the agenda: Brazil is inching closer to regulatory modernization. We continue to engage with partners, monitor the legislative process, and prepare to support the industry when regulatory clarity emerges.

Panama: A Reliable, Integrated Casino Market

Panama, where EGT has maintained a strong presence for years, remains one of the most stable and well-regulated land-based gaming jurisdictions in Latin America. Under the oversight of the Junta de Control de Juegos (JCJ), casinos operate within a clear legal framework, with no major legislative changes currently underway – providing a low-risk environment for long-term planning.

The country also benefits from a fully regulated online gambling sector, which is likewise overseen by the JCJ. With a consistent 10% GGR tax and strong institutional engagement, including support for regional industry events, Panama continues to position itself as a strategic hub for gaming activity in Central America.

Our ongoing presence in the market through our office in Panama reflects EGT’s commitment to supporting partners and driving sustainable growth in this key jurisdiction.

Argentina: Structured Governance and Decentralized Control

Argentina has 23 provinces, and each province has its own government that manages land-based gambling. Each province decides its own tax rules and how casinos can operate, which influences how profitable they are and what kinds of investments are allowed. Some provinces, like Buenos Aires and Mendoza, are known for having well-established casino industries, which are managed through their own laws.

Buenos Aires Province is Argentina’s largest and most developed jurisdiction for land-based gambling, hosting a wide network of casinos, bingo halls, and electronic gaming halls. Regulated by the Instituto Provincial de Lotería y Casinos (IPLyC), the province operates under a robust legal framework that allows private operators to manage physical gaming venues under state oversight. With clearly defined licensing rules, strict compliance controls, and a sizable player base, Buenos Aires Province remains a cornerstone of Argentina’s regulated gaming landscape.

Online gambling also plays a growing role, with many provinces – including Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Mendoza, and Santa Fe, having implemented their own iGaming regulations. Operators must obtain separate licenses for each jurisdiction.

Despite its fragmented structure, Argentina offers clear growth opportunities. Our ongoing presence in the region positions EGT to meet the diverse needs of partners across the country.

Colombia: With strong rules but fast market growt.

Colombia’s land-based gaming sector is nationally regulated by Coljuegos, which grants concession contracts for casinos and electronic gaming machines. The country enforces strict advertising rules, including bans on promotions targeting minors or suggesting guaranteed wins.

Recent updates have strengthened responsible gaming requirements, mandating tools such as player self-exclusion, deposit limits, risk messaging, and staff training. Coljuegos is working to unify these standards across the industry. On the digital side, Colombia remains a regional pioneer in regulated online gambling. Operators must hold a national concession, use local domain, and comply with local hosting rules. New tax proposals under discussion in Congress aim to introduce VAT on online gambling and crypto-related transactions, potentially impacting future operating models.

This regulatory landscape offers strong legal clarity, growing consumer demand, and room for innovation.

EGT: Committed to Compliance and Innovation in LATAM

Physical gambling remains a cornerstone of the LATAM gaming industry, with land-based casinos contributing significantly to local economies and employment. In countries like Brazil, Panama, Argentina, and Colombia, the total value of this market is more than several billion dollars each year.

At EGT, we understand the critical importance of complying to physical gambling regulations across LATAM. As part of our ongoing commitment to the region, we’re excited to announce the launch of our official EGT LATAM LinkedIn profile – your dedicated source for product news, market updates, and exhibition participation. Follow us on LinkedIn Euro Games Technology (EGT) LatAm and be part of our growing community.