Uruguay’s debate over the regulation of online gambling is gaining new momentum. As reported by Tribuna and other industry outlets, President Yamandú Orsi’s government is preparing to reintroduce a bill that could be presented to Parliament as early as 2026.
The move comes nearly four years after the failed attempt during Luis Lacalle Pou’s administration, whose original proposal passed the Senate but failed in the lower house due to disagreements among political parties and economic stakeholders — particularly surrounding the controversial casino project in Punta del Este.
Background: Between Regulation and Economic Interests
The previous draft law allowed land-based casinos to offer their games online under temporary and revocable licenses granted by the executive branch.
During the legislative process, amendments were proposed to include companies without physical casinos, a change that created tensions within the governing coalition and ultimately led to the initiative’s rejection.
According to Tribuna, several industry players are now pushing for a renewed version of the bill. The Ministry of Economy is reportedly working on a revised draft that considers the creation of a state-run online betting platform designed to ensure transparency, protect minors, and strengthen responsible gambling measures.
Economic Pressure and New Market Opportunities
Sports associations and private operators have long been calling for a market opening. The Uruguayan Football Association argues that allowing private operators could significantly increase sponsorship revenue for sports.
Currently, football benefits only indirectly from Supermatch, the sole state-authorized online platform, which contributes about USD 500,000 per year to the federation. With a controlled liberalization, analysts estimate that these figures could multiply.
The banking and financial sectors have also expressed interest, as the introduction of digital payment solutions — similar to those implemented in Colombia and Brazil — could modernize the market considerably. Meanwhile, policymakers warn that unregulated gambling deprives the state of revenue and weakens social oversight.
Political Voices and Social Responsibility
Senator Caraballo recently emphasized that regulating online gambling is “a strategic economic decision, but also a matter of public health.” His stance: Prohibition does not stop the phenomenon; it merely pushes it underground — depriving the state of control and potential benefits.
The Director General of Casinos, Fernando Estévez, confirmed to the union that a concrete project is already in development. The initiative aims to balance economic interests, fiscal returns, and player protection.
Outlook: Balancing Control and Growth
With 2026 as the target horizon, Uruguay faces a complex challenge: To establish a legal framework that combines tax revenue, legal certainty, and player welfare without reducing the market’s attractiveness to international operators.
In August 2025, Decree 167/025 introduced a 0.75 percent tax on each electronic wager — marking the first step toward clearer fiscal rules.
As Tribuna summarized, Uruguay could become a regional model for responsible online gambling through transparent regulation and a modern licensing system.