Peru’s Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Mincetur) has reported a significant reduction in the availability of illegal gambling services on digital platforms and applications, attributing a 40% decrease to its regulatory efforts. This update comes over a year after the implementation of Law No. 31557, which established regulations for online sports betting and gaming within the country.
Since the introduction of this legal framework, the Peruvian market has seen the entry of several international gambling operators, including Stake, Rush Street Interactive, and Betsson. According to Mincetur, 60 technology platforms have been authorized, and 280 related service providers have been registered under the new regulations.
In addition to formalizing the legal market, the regulator claims progress in combating black market operations. Mincetur states it has removed 15% of illegal gambling websites operating within Peru and has successfully reduced the overall supply of illegal online gambling by 40%.
These results are attributed to the intensified oversight activities of Mincetur’s General Directorate of Casino Games and Slot Machines (DGJCMT). This authority has focused on closing illegal establishments and coordinating efforts to diminish the presence of clandestine online platforms. Furthermore, the DGJCMT has engaged with payment institutions to block transactions and services linked to illegal gambling operators in Peru.
With the enactment of Law No. 31557, Peru became one of the first countries in Latin America, following Colombia and Argentina, to establish clear regulations for online betting. Mincetur asserts that it has positioned itself as a “regional benchmark” for gambling regulation, stating:
“This regulation has allowed the digital sector to be formalised, fostering an environment of trust for both operators and users. It has also opened up new investment opportunities, boosting the digitalisation of entertainment and strengthening the country’s tax collection.”
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Data from December of the previous year indicates the registration of 683 new sports betting venues, bringing the total number nationwide to 4,516. Mincetur has also implemented measures to promote responsible gambling, including awareness campaigns in educational institutions and training programs for betting companies. The ministry added:
“Collaboration with gaming associations reinforces the commitment to protecting vulnerable groups and ensuring a safe and responsible gaming environment.”
Despite projections suggesting Peru could become the third-largest online betting market in Latin America, the reintroduction of a consumption tax on the sector has raised concerns within the industry regarding its potential impact on growth. The current rate is 0.3% on each bet placed, with an increase to 1% scheduled for July 1 of the current year.
Gonzalo Perez, CEO of local operator Apuesta Total, has expressed fears that this consumption tax, in addition to the existing 12% GGR tax, could effectively double the tax burden on betting companies. This, in turn, could potentially drive both players and operators towards the black market. Nicolás Samohod Rivarola, Head of Gambling and Betting at the Vidal Caceres law firm in Peru, commented on this concern to iGB, stating:
“It would take the tax impact on [licensed operators] to high and burdensome levels, bordering on unconstitutional. And it would make many [stakeholders] think about evaluating their [presence] in the Peruvian market.”
