Brazil Betting Tax Revenue Jumps to BRL5.89bn in Early 2026

Brazil Betting Tax Revenue Reaches BRL5.89 Billion in Five Months – ANJL Urges Continued Action Against Illegal Operators

Key Takeaways

• Tax revenue from Brazil’s regulated betting market rose from BRL3.1 billion between January and May 2025 to BRL5.89 billion in the same period of 2026.
• The 2026 World Cup was the first held under Brazil’s regulated betting framework, with specific compliance rules issued before the tournament.
• New federal advertising regulations introduce additional requirements for betting operators.
• ANJL estimates illegal websites still account for nearly half of the Brazilian online betting and gaming market.

Regulated Market Posts Sharp Increase in Tax Revenue

Brazil’s regulated sports betting and online gaming market generated BRL5.89 billion in tax revenue between January and May 2026, according to figures cited by Plínio Lemos Jorge, president of the National Association of Games and Lotteries (ANJL). During the same period in 2025, tax revenue totaled BRL3.1 billion.

According to Lemos Jorge, the increase reflects the expansion of the regulated sector and its contribution to public finances. He described the results as evidence of the economic and social relevance of the legal market, with tax proceeds flowing back to society.

The Federal Revenue Service has not yet released official figures for the full first half of 2026. However, Lemos Jorge stated that June performance is likely to reflect the impact of the 2026 World Cup, which took place under a fully regulated Brazilian betting environment for the first time.

World Cup Held Under Full Regulatory Framework

The 2026 tournament marked the first World Cup since Brazil implemented its regulated fixed odds betting regime under Law No. 14.790 of 2023 and subsequent ordinances issued by the Secretariat of Prizes and Bets (SPA), which operates under the Ministry of Finance.

One week before the tournament began, the SPA issued Technical Note No. 3620. The document established specific rules covering communication, advertising and marketing practices for betting operators during the competition. Authorised operators were required to comply with these measures, in addition to the broader regulatory framework.

Lemos Jorge stated that operators licensed by the Ministry of Finance function under strict oversight and may face sanctions in cases of non compliance. He said that integrity and responsibility were reinforced ahead of the tournament.

He also pointed to in person brand activations, including partnerships with bars and restaurants and distribution of fan kits, as visible features of the World Cup period. These initiatives were designed to connect digital betting brands with consumers beyond online platforms.

New Federal Advertising Rules and Disputes With Municipalities

Brazil’s federal government has introduced new advertising regulations for the betting sector. According to ANJL, the updated rules add mandatory elements to advertising and aim to strengthen transparency and consumer protection.

Lemos Jorge described the federal measures as an additional safeguard for both bettors and operators. He said clearer and more informative communication requirements are expected to reinforce responsible gambling messaging.

At the same time, several municipalities, including Rio de Janeiro and João Pessoa, have introduced or are implementing bans on betting advertising in public spaces. Other major cities are considering similar measures.

ANJL argues that the Federal Constitution assigns legislative authority over commercial advertising exclusively to the federal government. Lemos Jorge warned that differing local rules across states and municipalities could create legal uncertainty for operators and legislative confusion, particularly given the cross regional nature of digital and broadcast advertising.

He also referred to existing self regulation initiatives developed jointly by ANJL, the Brazilian Institute for Responsible Gambling (IBJR) and the National Council for Advertising Self Regulation (Conar). According to him, this framework, known as Annex X, sets detailed standards for advertising conduct within the industry.

Political Pressure Ahead of Elections

Brazil’s upcoming elections are expected to intensify political scrutiny of betting companies in the second half of the year. Lemos Jorge acknowledged that parts of the political debate have singled out betting operators as a focal point of criticism.

He stated that the industry must remain committed to responsible and ethical gaming during this period. Regulatory oversight remains in place through bodies such as the SPA, Conar and, where applicable, Senacon, an agency linked to the Ministry of Justice.

According to Lemos Jorge, any potential breaches of advertising or operational rules during the World Cup would be assessed by the relevant authorities. He emphasized that operators are aware of the applicable rules and cannot justify non compliance by claiming ignorance.

Illegal Websites Still Represent Significant Market Share

Despite the growth of the regulated market, ANJL estimates that illegal websites still account for nearly half of Brazil’s online betting and gaming activity.

Lemos Jorge stated that this share has declined but remains substantial. He warned that the proportion of unlicensed operators could increase if regulatory or fiscal measures undermine the sustainability of licensed businesses.

He added that the federal government has recognized the need to combat illegal operations. ANJL is working in partnership with Anatel, Brazil’s national telecommunications agency, as part of enforcement efforts targeting unauthorised websites.

For licensed operators and international observers, the size of the illegal segment remains a central issue. The balance between taxation, advertising restrictions and enforcement is likely to shape how much activity shifts toward regulated platforms.

Our Assessment

The first five months of 2026 show a marked increase in tax revenue from Brazil’s regulated betting market compared with the same period in 2025. The 2026 World Cup was the first major global tournament held under the country’s new regulatory framework, accompanied by specific compliance measures issued by the SPA.

At the same time, advertising rules at the federal level have tightened, while municipal initiatives have introduced legal debate over jurisdiction. Political scrutiny is expected to continue in the run up to elections. Illegal websites remain a significant part of the market, and enforcement against unlicensed operators continues to be a stated priority for both ANJL and government authorities.