Operator News

Argentina – Land-based casinos get nod to operate online in Buenos Aires

By Phil - 28 September 2020

Operators of ‘physical’ gambling properties in Buenos Aires, included casinos, bingo halls and slot halls, will now be able to offer online gaming, following approval by the Buenos Aires Legislature.

Online operators won’t pay any fees but will contribute a percentage of the bets, between 10 per cent and 20 per cent of each bet, and six per cent of the gross profits. Licenses will run for five years, with the Ministry of Finance overseeing the regulation of the industry.

Only people with a ‘clean record’ will be allowed to be involved in online gaming and lotteries.

Online operators must provide customers with accurate and complete information regarding the type of game, rules, probability of obtaining a prize, and other information related to the game play. As well as ” having a gambling profile that allows the bettor to access his gambling history and behaviour easily and online, the operator must provide clear information that allows him to make decisions about his behaviour.”

Another law brought in will ban the operation of ATMs and money vending machines, as well as pawnshops, within a radius of 200 meters from the gaming halls .
Vamos Juntos (VJ) Mercedes De Las Casas, said: “This is the first law on a complex and painful issue such as gambling. We are creating a framework of controlled play. When gambling is not responsible it turns into hurt and pain. It is a compulsive disorder that affects those who suffer from it and their family and environment, it is a silent disease and difficult for families to detect. This law is a great step to ensure that gambling is responsible. There is still a lot to continue working on, but starting by restricting and sanctioning is a good way to start,” he said.

Peronist Claudia Neira (FdT) said: “It is logical to want to regulate online gaming as it exists and is installed in the world. It is also important that gambling is controlled and prevented. When we talk about gambling, we are talking about health, so we have to face it from that side. This is a great source of income for the City but we know very well that it is an activity that brings many problems to the locals.”

Hernán Reyes (VJ) added: “Allowing online gambling is a difficult and complex decision, but it has already been made a few years ago. This is going to bring changes, we are going to have to measure the impact on society and new technologies.”