Brazil betting ban raises concerns over growth of the illegal market

Brazil’s betting ban has intensified a debate over whether prohibition will protect consumers or push more gambling activity towards unregulated operators, with industry representatives warning the illegal market could expand as the government attempts to restrict the sector. The issue featured prominently at a public hearing at the Supreme Federal Court (STF) on Tuesday, where 34 entities discussed Provisional Measure 1.394, which banned betting in Brazil . The Ministry of Justice said it had requested the removal of 36,905 websites between 25 September and 29 October.