Lula renews call to end Brazil’s betting industry amid revenue and illegal-market concerns
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva renewed his criticism of betting companies and said he would favour ending the activity, while acknowledging opposition in Congress. He cited BRL7.3 billion in gambling revenue for the government in the first half of 2026; research cited in the report estimates unauthorised operators account for 38% to 44% of betting activity.
A proposed ban could affect regulated operators and government revenue while potentially shifting bettors to unauthorised platforms.