Brazil Implements Immediate Restrictions on Betting Advertising

Brazil’s Secretariat of Prizes and Bets (SPA) has enacted a new ordinance, immediately enforcing several advertising restrictions on betting operators as the country prepares for the launch of its legal betting market in just a few weeks. This move follows a hearing at the Federal Supreme Court (STF) concerning the impact of betting on the Brazilian population.

Normative Ordinance No 1,902, published recently, puts into effect specific sections of Normative Ordinance No 1,231, initially outlined in July. The remaining measures will take effect on January 1, 2025, coinciding with the launch of the legal betting market in Brazil.

Key Advertising Restrictions Now in Effect

The ordinance immediately implements four sections of Article 12 from Normative Ordinance 1,231. These restrictions focus on protecting minors from gambling advertising.

• Targeted Advertising: Advertising aimed at children or adolescents is now prohibited.
• Audience Restrictions: Ads cannot be broadcast on channels where individuals under 18 constitute the majority of the audience.
• Imagery Restrictions: The use of images of children or elements particularly appealing to minors is banned.
• Cultural Activities: Betting cannot be associated with cultural activities designed for adolescents.

Furthermore, Item I of Article 13 is now in force, mandating that all communications from betting operators display age restrictions. The symbol ’18+’ or the message “prohibited for people under 18” must be prominently displayed.

Brazil has also adopted section two of Article 17, which prohibits operators from sponsoring children and encouraging gambling among adolescents. This includes a ban on companies sponsoring children’s teams or events primarily aimed at adolescents.

To ensure compliance, the SPA will immediately implement rules for inspection, monitoring, and sanctions related to these measures. All other advertising restrictions will be subject to scrutiny starting January 1.

These immediate restrictions signal Brazil’s commitment to responsible gambling practices as it moves towards a fully regulated betting market.