iGaming regulation is advancing rapidly across Latin America, raising the bar in terms of technical, legal, and ethical requirements for those who wish to operate legally. In Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and Argentina, entering the regulated market demands a robust structure of compliance, information security, and systemic stability—elements that are no longer competitive advantages, but rather non-negotiable prerequisites for operation. Insight by André Neves, COO at Salsa Technology.
Brazil is undergoing a historic transformation with the implementation of one of the most complex regulatory frameworks currently in place. In addition to a licensing process that requires initial investments of tens of millions of reais, the Secretariat for Prizes and Betting (SPA) has set rigorous technical guidelines, including anti-fraud systems, business continuity plans, cybersecurity testing, and full compliance with the data protection rules established by the LGPD.
This is not only about safeguarding operational integrity but about protecting the ecosystem from systemic risks and shielding consumers from abusive practices.
Recent cases in Brazil highlight the strict nature of these regulatory demands: seven betting sites were suspended for failing to submit required security assessment reports in time, as mandated by SPA/MF Ordinance No. 722/2024.
This episode confirms that enforcement is active and that penalties are indeed applied. Beyond administrative sanctions, operators that violate the rules may face legal action and irreversible reputational damage. This article does not aim to question how the enforcement measures were executed or any procedural flaws, but rather to underscore the level of rigor required by regulation.
In Colombia, Latin America’s regulatory pioneer since 2016, the regulatory body Coljuegos has stepped up its oversight efforts, cracking down on illegal operators and blocking initiatives that threaten public revenue. The growing pressure on digital influencers promoting unauthorized raffles is one example of how regulatory enforcement is being used to safeguard public funds allocated to health and social welfare, while also ensuring fair competition.
Peru recently formalized its regulatory framework, introducing legislation that includes heavy fines for unlicensed operators and clear requirements for anti-money laundering (AML) policies, responsible gaming practices, and player data protection. Since February 2024, the country has had one of the most modern legal frameworks in the region, positioning itself as a promising and secure market, but one that is equally challenging for those seeking to operate legally.
Argentina presents a more fragmented landscape, with varying provincial and state-level regulations. Buenos Aires, for instance, leads in terms of regulation and enforcement, but the need for local adaptation adds extra complexity for operators aiming for national coverage. Requirements range from detailed tax reporting to the adoption of anti-fraud systems and technical security certifications.
The Latin American market is characterized by rapid growth, with projections indicating that gross gaming revenue could reach USD 12 billion by 2028, up from USD 2.5 billion in 2024. In Brazil alone, monthly online betting volumes are estimated to exceed BRL 30 billion, with over 90% of that amount returned to players in the form of prizes. This exponential growth demands a professionalized operation supported by legal and technical infrastructure that matches the level of risk.
Compliance, information security, and operational stability are no longer differentiators, they are the price of admission to the regulated game. The trend is clear: operators that fail to invest in data protection technology, anti-fraud systems, automated tax compliance reporting, and effective responsible gaming policies will be excluded from the market, whether by regulatory authorities or by losing public trust.
In this scenario, having partners who deeply understand regulatory requirements and offer aligned technological solutions is essential. It is this commitment to integrity and the sustainable growth of the sector that guides our support for operators who seek not only regulatory compliance but also operational excellence and security in the iGaming market. Learn more about Salsa Technology’s solutions at salsatechnology.com.
André Neves is the COO of Salsa Technology. With extensive experience in operations, product, and technology in the iGaming sector, André leads the company’s strategic areas with a focus on performance, scalability, and operational excellence. He is a reference in the Latin American market for his practical approach, analytical vision, and leadership in regulated environments.
