Brazil senator claims land-based casino legalisation could boost tax coffers by $3.7 billion
Summary
Senator Irajá Abreu is again campaigning to legalise land-based casinos in Brazil, saying regulation could generate about BRL20 billion (roughly $3.7 billion) in tax revenue and create over a million jobs. Although online betting was regulated from 1 January 2025, land-based gambling remains illegal despite PL 2,234/2022 including casinos, bingo, jogo do bicho and horse-racing betting. The Senate vote on the bill has been repeatedly postponed, but Irajá argues legalisation would also boost tourism and curb an extensive illegal market currently operating across Brazil.
Key Points
- Senator Irajá Abreu estimates BRL20 billion ($3.7bn) in potential tax revenue from legal land-based casinos.
- PL 2,234/2022 — which would legalise casinos, bingo, jogo do bicho and horse-racing betting — has been approved by a committee but faces postponed Senate votes.
- Irajá claims legalisation could create more than one million jobs and support public spending on health, education and safety.
- He argues regulated casinos would strengthen Brazil’s underperforming tourism sector, potentially doubling visitor numbers as seen in other countries.
- Irajá highlights a large existing illegal gambling market in Brazil that currently avoids taxation and government oversight.
Content summary
The article reports on Senator Irajá Abreu’s renewed push to legalise land-based casinos in Brazil. While online betting regulation is already in place, land-based gambling remains illegal despite legislative proposals. Irajá presents economic and social arguments for legalisation: significant tax receipts (BRL20bn), mass job creation and a tourism boost. He also notes the widespread presence of unregulated gambling activities across Brazilian cities and says regulation would allow the state to collect taxes and protect citizens. The Senate decision on the bill has been delayed multiple times, leaving timing uncertain.
Context and relevance
This matters for operators, investors, regional governments and tourism stakeholders: legalisation would reshape Brazil’s gaming landscape, open new commercial opportunities, and shift market share from an illicit sector to regulated players. It also intersects with fiscal policy and regional development debates as lawmakers weigh economic benefits against social and regulatory concerns.
Author style
Punchy: the piece zeroes in on the numbers and political push. If the bill passes, the implications for revenues, jobs and tourism would be material — so keep an eye on parliamentary timetables.
Why should I read this?
Short version: senator says legal casinos = BRL20bn in tax, a million jobs and more tourists. If you follow Latin American gaming policy, tourism economics or investment opportunities in regulated markets, this is a quick heads-up worth your two-minute read.
