Argentina online betting firms lobby Senate against new restrictions

Online betting companies in Argentina are intensifying efforts to influence Senate regulations, advocating for a focus on illegal operators rather than imposing stricter rules on licensed firms. The industry seeks to prevent new obligations from falling on legal entities, arguing that the government should prioritize the prosecution of unauthorized platforms.

A proposal submitted by the Executive Branch in May suggests prison sentences of three to six years for those organizing unauthorized gambling systems, and two to four years for those providing essential digital, financial, or advertising services with knowledge of the illegality. The initiative also includes domain blocking and financial restrictions for unlicensed platforms.

This debate contrasts with a previous measure approved by the Chamber of Deputies, which included broader restrictions on advertising, sponsorships, identity verification, and self-exclusion mechanisms. While the government's text focuses on preventing minor access and limiting specific advertising, the industry remains concerned about the impact of potential regulations on the legal market.