The Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism of Peru (Mincetur) recently announced that since the implementation of the online gambling regulation law No. 31557, the supply of illegal online gambling in the country has decreased by 40%. This significant achievement is due to the strong measures taken by the regulatory authorities.
As the regulatory body, Mincetur, through its General Directorate of Casino Games and Slot Machines (DGJCMT), continues to strengthen market supervision. Specific measures include: closing illegal operations, collaborating with payment institutions to block illegal financial flows, and conducting inter-departmental joint enforcement. Statistics show that currently, 15% of illegal gambling websites have been cleaned up and taken offline.
While regulating the market, Peru is actively promoting the legalization process. To date, Mincetur has issued operating licenses to 60 technical platforms and registered 280 related service providers. Internationally renowned operators such as Stake, Rush Street Interactive, and Betsson have obtained entry qualifications. The total number of registered sports betting venues nationwide has reached 4,516, of which 683 were added since December last year.
Mincetur states that the well-established regulatory framework not only purifies the market environment but also creates development opportunities for the industry. Peru has become the third country in Latin America, after Colombia and Argentina, to establish clear online gambling regulations. The regulatory authorities are committed to making Peru a regional regulatory benchmark.
However, the industry expresses concerns about the upcoming adjustment of the consumption tax. Starting from July 1, the betting tax rate will increase from 0.3% to 1%, in addition to the existing 12% total gambling revenue tax, which may increase the burden on businesses. Industry insiders warn that excessively high taxes may drive some players and operators towards the black market, which is counterproductive to achieving regulatory goals.
While promoting industry development, Peru also focuses on responsible gambling construction. The regulatory authorities enhance public awareness of gambling addiction through campus lectures, corporate training, and other means, and cooperate with industry associations to establish protection mechanisms, striving to balance development promotion and risk prevention.
