SBC News Voice of the Sports Betting Industry
Betsson AB is closely monitoring the fast-track of a Federal Bill in Argentina, which aims to ban advertising and sponsorship for online gambling and sports betting.
The Bill, recently approved by the Chamber of Deputies last week, is now under review in the Senate to impose federal laws on gambling advertising and sponsorships.
The legislation seeks to prohibit gambling advertising across all Argentine media platforms and public spaces. It also calls for an outright ban on sponsorships involving sports teams, including football clubs and leagues registered with the Argentine Football Association (AFA).
The Bill includes measures to stop public figures and influencers from promoting gambling on social media.
Betsson issued a response to SBC, stating: “At Betsson, we are closely monitoring the developments surrounding the Federal Bill to ban gambling advertising and sponsorships in Argentina. As a company, we strongly support regulated online gaming markets that are commercially sound and well-functioning. Such markets not only enhance player safety but also contribute significantly to the economic well-being of stakeholders, including football clubs, and society as a whole through tax revenue.
“We believe that a robust licensing system, coupled with reasonable and effective regulations, ensures a sustainable balance between public concerns and the benefits of the industry. Blanket bans, however, have historically not achieved these objectives and often lead to unintended consequences, such as pushing players towards unlicensed and unregulated operators.”
Stakeholders are concerned about the Bill’s advancement to the Senate without prior consultation with licensed operators, sports organisations, or media owners.
Deputies supporting the Bill argue it must be implemented before Argentina’s mid-term legislative elections in 2025, when changes to the Chamber of Deputies are expected.
Betsson has operated in Argentina since 2021, holding provincial licenses in Buenos Aires and Córdoba, as well as a municipal license for the City of Buenos Aires.
The company established a significant presence in 2023 by becoming the principal partner of Boca Juniors FC, setting a record for sponsorship deals in Argentina’s football sector.
In a closing statement, Betsson added: “While we acknowledge the importance of regulating various aspects of the market, including advertising, we emphasize that marketing should be allowed within clearly defined regulatory limits.
“Properly managed marketing plays a vital role in ensuring that operators in the regulated market can inform players and distinguish themselves from unlicensed competitors, further protecting players and upholding the integrity of the industry. We hope for a collaborative dialogue with all stakeholders to create a framework for a well-regulated online gaming market in Argentina.”
The legislation could reshape the online gambling landscape in Argentina, and Betsson is advocating for balanced regulation to address public concerns while maintaining a sustainable market.
