The government of Brazil has taken a significant step in tackling problem gambling behaviours, announcing the formation of the Interministerial Working Group on Health, Prevention, and Harm Reduction of Problematic Gambling.
Published via Ordinance MF No. 153, published in the Government Gazette, the initiative is backed by multiple government departments to coordinate regulatory, public health, and policy efforts to address gambling-related harm.
The working group was established under Interministerial Ordinance MF/MS/MESP/SECOM No. 37, issued on December 6, 2024. It comprises key representatives from the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Sport, and the Social Communication Secretariat (SECOM) of the Presidency.
A Multi-Sectoral Approach to Responsible Gambling
The working group is tasked with developing a comprehensive action plan aimed at preventing, reducing harm, and supporting individuals affected by gambling addiction. The initiative highlights Brazil’s growing focus on responsible gambling, especially as the country continues to regulate its expanding betting market.
The working group is formed of the members of Carolina Yumi de Souza (Deputy Secretary for Prizes and Betting), Francisco Carvalheira Neto (General Coordinator of Regulation) Daniele Correa Cardoso (General Coordinator of Responsible Gambling Monitoring) and Andiara Maria Braga Maranhão (Substitute Coordinator of Responsible Gambling)
The Ministry of Health has included experts specialising in mental health, epidemiology, and addiction prevention, while the Ministry of Sport and media agency SECOM have appointed officials focusing on betting regulation, economic development, and public communication.
Key Responsibilities and Policy Goals
The task force has been mandated to:
- 1. Assess administrative, policy, and regulatory actions to mitigate gambling-related harms.
- 2. Propose preventive policies, treatment guidelines, and awareness campaigns.
- 3. Provide recommendations on risk monitoring, intervention strategies, and responsible gambling measures.
- 4. Collaborate with public and private stakeholders to strengthen regulation and enforcement.
Additionally, the Mental Health and Problematic Gambling Prevention Action Plan will serve as the cornerstone of the initiative, detailing measures for education, harm reduction, and targeted intervention strategies.
Regulatory Implications and Next Steps
The group is expected to deliver a final report within 60 days, detailing findings and proposing actionable policy recommendations. If required, the deadline may be extended by an additional 60-day period.
With the rapid expansion of sports betting and gaming in Brazil, the formation of this task force signals a clear commitment to ensuring a safe and sustainable gambling ecosystem. The move aligns Brazil with international regulatory standards, reinforcing responsible gambling measures as a priority amid the sector’s continued growth.