Last week in Congress, an Argentine auditor proposed a federal-level restriction on gambling advertisements. Despite varying gambling regulations across provinces, efforts are being made to standardize regulations throughout all provinces.
For some time, public opinion has been focused on underage gambling, with increasing concerns about gambling issues. In light of this, some local regulatory bodies have started to block websites, issue warnings, and even sue influencers and celebrities who promote illegal gambling.
The auditor noted in the proposal: "Faced with the proliferation of online gambling, some companies adopt aggressive and enticing advertising strategies, leading or potentially leading the general public, especially young people, to focus on these games, increasing their involvement and addiction."
"Recent studies show that frequent exposure to these advertising campaigns can increase the likelihood of developing gambling-related addictive behaviors, a condition known as online gambling addiction. Adolescents, being in a stage of cognitive and emotional development and still undergoing training, are particularly susceptible to these influences."
Regulation of Gambling Advertising in Argentina
The proposal calls for a complete ban on promoting and advertising online gambling and sports betting across all media, including digital media, television, radio, print media, and public places. Additionally, sports sponsorships, especially those attracting minors, will also be prohibited. Strict mechanisms will be implemented to verify whether users meet the legal age requirement.
"The main goal of this bill is to prevent youth addiction to online gambling by regulating online gambling advertisements. International evidence suggests that implementing restrictive policies in this area can effectively reduce young people's exposure to harmful content," the proposal states.
"By taking these measures, we not only protect the health and well-being of young people but also promote the overall healthy development, aligning with the values and principles we uphold as a society."
The proposal also calls for the national administrative department to designate an agency to oversee the implementation and compliance of the law, should it be enacted. It "will have the necessary authority to inspect, audit, and sanction violators," and will also be responsible for promoting awareness campaigns about the risks of online gambling addiction, and will impose severe sanctions on those who do not comply with the legal provisions."
Once the regulations begin to be implemented, operators will also have six months to adjust their practices and advertisements according to the established terms.
The document warns: "Non-compliance with the provisions of this law may result in warnings, fines, or the suspension or cancellation of licenses to operate online games and betting."
Article 13 requires all provinces and the city of Buenos Aires to comply with this regulation, and if approved, the bill must be passed through its regulations within 120 days and ultimately signed into law.
