Mexico Holds Firm on Casino Policy Amid Calls for Legal Reform
The Mexican government is maintaining a strict stance on the gambling industry, with Secretary of the Interior Rosa Icela Rodríguez making it clear that no new casino permits have been issued under the current administration of Claudia Sheinbaum. This marks a significant departure from previous administrations.
During a recent press conference, Rodríguez explained that the few existing permits were authorized by court order during the previous government, not through administrative decisions. “There will be no influence peddling or corruption in this matter,” she stated firmly.
Industry Pushes for Modernization
The gaming and betting sector is urgently seeking legal updates, as the current regulations date back to 1947 and are considered obsolete. Rodríguez confirmed that she has met with industry representatives (“casino operators”) who are demanding a modern regulatory framework. However, she cautioned that any reform would have to wait until September or October of this year, when it could be discussed in Congress. “We are analyzing the possibility, but with absolute transparency,” she emphasized.
Zero Tolerance for Corruption
The Secretary of the Interior issued an unambiguous warning: she will not tolerate any acts of corruption related to this sector. “If we detect bribes or irregularities, we will denounce both the companies and the complicit officials,” she affirmed in an ultimatum-like tone. This message comes in a context where the gaming industry moves billions and has historically been linked to money laundering and corruption scandals.
“Here no new casino permits will be issued. We are prioritizing transparency and combating corruption.” – Rosa Icela Rodríguez, Secretary of the Interior
Government Prioritizes Legality
In the meantime, the federal government will maintain its hard-line policy: no new casinos without first modernizing the law and ensuring strict controls. Rodríguez made it clear that the priority is to prevent this business from becoming a hotbed of illegality, as has happened in the past. “There will be no concessions at the expense of the law,” she reiterated, making it clear that Sheinbaum prefers to lose tax revenue rather than compromise her fight against corruption.
Key Priorities
- No new casino permits issued under the current administration.
- Existing permits were authorized by court order, not administrative decision.
- Industry seeking legal updates due to obsolete regulations dating back to 1947.
- Government prioritizing transparency and combating corruption in the gaming sector.
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