All companies affiliated with the State Lottery of Maranhão (Lotema) are listed as authorized to operate sports betting and online games in the state. The announcement from the Ministry of Finance includes Embralote, already in operation since the launch of the public service, and three others in the implementation phase.
The documents include all companies that deal with sports betting, known as bets, authorized to continue operating, at both state and national levels. On the national list, 93 companies with 205 bets were authorized. On the state list, 18 companies have been granted authorization.
Among the four companies authorized by Lotema, Embralote, whose domain is ma.embralote.com.br, has been operating since the launch of the public service, while the others are in the final phase of implementation.
All remain safe options for betting, under regulation at both state and federal levels. Moreover, the exploitation of Lotema's affiliates is carried out only within Maranhense territory.
Authorized to operate sports betting and online games under the supervision of Lotema are:
- Embralote – already in operation
- WLC Maranhão Exploration of Games and Bets SPE Ltda
- SDL State Lottery Concessionaire of Maranhão SPE S.A.
- BR Lotto State Lottery Concessionaire of Maranhão SPE S.A.
According to the president of Maranhão Partnerships (Mapa), Cassiano Pereira Junior, the action reflects the commitment to transparency and legality in the Brazilian betting market.
“This process is crucial to ensure, in unity, a secure and regulated environment, where companies operate responsibly, following all legal requirements. This transition is essential to protect both consumers and the integrity of the sector. Lotema will continue to ensure that all operators follow the regulations and that the interests of the bettors are preserved.”
Other betting sites not listed by the Federal Government are considered illegal and are prohibited from operating in Maranhão and Brazil. The websites will remain online only to facilitate the withdrawal of money by bettors who have not yet done so, until October 11.
After this period, all illegal sites will be blocked, through the National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel).
The Secretariat of Prizes and Bets of the Ministry of Finance (SPA-MF) will be responsible for the inspection and adoption of necessary measures to comply with the new ordinance, no. 1,475, of September 16, in partnership with Lotema and other authorities that have the attribution to curb due infractions.
Launched in April, Lotema is a public service managed and supervised by the State Government, through Maranhão Partnerships (Mapa), to generate resources with the aim of financing social projects of the state administration and to generate employment.
Lotema commits to sustainability and social responsibility in Maranhão. Through awareness campaigns and responsible gaming practices, the service aims to promote a culture of healthy entertainment and prevent problems related to gambling addiction.
Source: GMB
