“Brazil’s current political climate makes it difficult for gambling legalization to become a reality”

Sales Da Silveira expected legalization to happen by the end of the first semester of 2017, as the federal government seemed eager to address the issue. However, he noted:

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The current political climate in Brazil makes it dificult for gambling legalization to become a reality in the short-term.

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According to the Abrabincs boss, it is almost impossible for Brazil to green-light gambling in the immediate future without the support of a religious group that has expressed opposition to the bill.

“Should the bill be debated as an ordinary law, gambling could happen in the second semester. But the political climate that exists in Brazil at the moment poses a threat to gambling legalization, at least in the short term," he stated.

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The political turmoil is threatening the presidency of Michel Temer, therefore, delaying the decision on gambling.

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“The current situation offers different scenarios,” Sales Da Silveira explained, saying gambling legalization efforts continue despite delays and uncertainty. “Prohibition doesn’t work. A well-regulated legal market would benefit the state coffers as it would create thousands of jobs and put an end to illegal gambling activities.”