New Insights Reveal Majority of Brazilians Support Legalization of Land-Based Gambling
A recent survey conducted by DataSenado has indicated a significant shift in perspective among Brazilian adults, with a notable 60% backing the legalization of land-based gambling entities.
On April 22, the DataSenado Research Institute unveiled the results of its nationwide survey, aiming to gauge public sentiment regarding gambling in Brazil. Affiliated with the Transparency Secretariat of the Federal Senate, DataSenado conducted this inquiry with a diverse group of 5,039 participants aged 16 and older, utilizing computer-assisted telephone interviews from February 21 to March 1.
Interest in the legalization of casinos, bingos, jogo do bicho, and horse race betting has gained momentum following the approval of PL 2,234/2022 by the Justice and Citizenship Committee in June of the previous year. Although the bill has encountered delays, Senator Irajá Abreu, its rapporteur, expressed confidence that it will finally be voted on by the Senate soon, citing strong support.
The survey results demonstrated that a majority of respondents—60%—favor the regulation and oversight of land-based gambling. Only 34% expressed opposition, while 6% remained uncertain or chose not to respond.
Unlocking Economic Potential through Gambling Legalization
Much of the advocacy for legalizing land-based gambling is founded on its potential economic advantages for Brazil. Estimates suggest that legalization could draw in approximately BRL20 billion (around £2.6 billion or $3.5 billion) annually.
When respondents were asked about the impact of legalization on tax revenues, 58% agreed it would enhance collections, while 22% disagreed. Additionally, 44% of participants believed this move could generate new job opportunities, with international companies like Hard Rock International poised to enter the Brazilian market.
Alex Pariente, Hard Rock International’s corporate senior vice president of casino and hotel operations, highlighted the transformative potential of such investments: “We are eager to develop an integrated resort that could significantly boost tourism while also creating numerous job opportunities.”
The DataSenado survey found that 26% of the population would likely engage in land-based gambling if it were legalized, underscoring an existing desire for formalized gambling options despite the current prohibitions.
Acknowledging the underground nature of gambling in Brazil, only 25% of those surveyed felt that the present restrictions effectively curtail these activities.
Paving the Way for Regulation
As seen with the licensed online gambling initiatives launched earlier this year, the potential formalization of land-based gambling could significantly mitigate the harmful consequences often associated with unregulated betting, such as addiction and criminal activities linked to illicit gambling.
The findings revealed that 65% of respondents considered the establishment of regulations to combat gambling-related crimes, including money laundering, to be of utmost importance. Conversely, 17% deemed it merely important.
Notably, opposition exists within Brazil’s federal police regarding land-based gambling regulation, as concerns about increased money laundering have been publicly raised.
The survey also indicated widespread support for proposed measures that would ensure transparency in casino operations, with 62% of respondents viewing the supervision of gambling machines favorably. Additionally, more than half—54%—believed that creating a confidential registry for individuals struggling with gambling addiction could be beneficial. Likewise, 52% acknowledged the importance of implementing measures to prevent individuals from accruing debts due to gambling.
In summary, as Brazil contemplates the future of land-based gambling, a significant segment of its adult population is advocating for both legalization and regulation, envisioning a landscape where economic growth and responsible gambling practices can coexist.