Mexico’s gambling industry remains regulated by the outdated Federal Law of Gaming and Lotteries, which was passed back in 1947. Initially, it mandated a total ban on real-money content.
Over the past 75 years, the local entertainment business has grown and transformed so much that the lack of effective oversight has led to the emergence of a global shadow sector. This situation leaves operators and customers vulnerable and requires urgent government intervention.
Stakeholders' Call for Reform
One of the most ardent advocates for the change has been the Mexican association AIEJA, uniting niche operators and suppliers. The organisation initiated a collective appeal to the authorities, asking for a complete overhaul of the legal framework for the gaming industry. This request has become even more pressing in light of the 2026 FIFA World Cup that the country has been assigned to host.
AIEJA’s representatives noted that the development of a new regulatory model opens a major economic opportunity for the state. It is the best way to ensure consumer protection in both the digital and land-based segments.
Prominent gambling executives have joined the initiative:
- Betcris' JD Duarte;
- Winpot’s Yono Sidi;
- Codere’s Aviv Sher.
Among the proposals was the creation of a special advisory board, consisting of operators assisting authorities in establishing fair and balanced rules for the entire market.
Government's First Transformation Steps
Mexico’s Ministry of the Interior has taken the lead in drafting the legislative framework. AIEJA’s President announced that the process is progressing. According to Miguel Ángel Ochoa Sánchez's statement, Secretaría de Gobernación has already held a series of consultation meetings with stakeholders and major local operators.
He said it is the first experience participating in the development of a regulatory framework for the entire gaming market. The community is at the very beginning of the journey to creating a transparent and safe environment. The industry has long been affected by outdated legislation, so now is a perfect time for a radical change.
The reform will absorb the best compliance control and audience protection practices, including:
- wagering limits;
- age verification systems;
- responsible gambling policies.
The government intends to incorporate top-notch international regulatory standards into the future draft law and adapt them to the local market, with national cultural specifics in mind.
FIFA WC 2026 as a Catalyst for Action
Major sporting events usually lead to a sharp increase in gaming popularity. It is common for operators to generate more revenue from bets in the month leading up to a world tournament than they did in the entire year. For the gambling business in Mexico, the situation is further exacerbated by the fact that the country is hosting the competition with Canada and the US.
The path the state takes in the coming months will determine the future of the entire local sector.
Active measures aimed at regulating the industry will allow the government to:
- improve consumer protection programs;
- demonstrate its ability to adapt to international standards;
- significantly enhance the economic impact of real-money wagering.
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