Peru reduces illegal online gambling offer by 40% one year after regulation of the industry

The Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Mincetur) informed that, a little more than a year after having implemented the law that regulates the online sector, it has been able to reduce by 40% the offer of illegal games in digital platforms and applications.

In a public statement, the Executive portfolio in charge of regulating gambling also highlighted that, thanks to the inspection work, 15% of the illegal websites "have left the Peruvian market" and that "payment methods providers and financial entities have been contacted to block services to unauthorized operators."

Based on this, Mincetur highlighted that "Peru has managed to position itself as a regional referent in the integral regulation of gambling" and that, through the normative framework, it was possible to "protect the consumer, guarantee transparency in the operations and promote the formal and sustainable economic development."

The Ministry highlighted that with the implementation of Law N° 31,557, which regulates sports betting and online games, "the country became the third country in Latin America to establish clear regulations for this activity."

"Since its entry into force in February 2024, 60 technological platforms have been authorized and 280 linked service providers have been registered, as well as the accreditation of nine international certification laboratories," Mincetur detailed.

Minister Úrsula León

In this regard, the Ministry stated that "this regulation has made it possible to formalize the digital sector, promoting an environment of trust for both operators and users." At the same time, it has allowed "new investment opportunities, boosting the digitalization of entertainment and strengthening the country's tax collection."

Sports betting halls

Regarding the impact of the regulation on the land-based market, Mincetur indicated that "one of the most outstanding achievements is the sustained increase in the formalization of sports betting halls: since December 2024, a total of 683 new halls have been registered, bringing the total number to 4,516 authorized halls nationwide."

At the same time, the Ministry highlighted that the General Directorate of Casino Games and Slot Machines of Mincetur “has intensified the control, closing illegal establishments and promoting coordinated actions to reduce the presence of illegal platforms."

Finally, Mincetur pointed out that several actions have also been implemented to promote responsible gaming, including awareness talks on gambling addiction in educational institutions and training for companies in the industry.

"Collaboration with gaming guilds reinforces the commitment to protect vulnerable groups and ensure a safe and responsible gaming environment," the Ministry concluded.