Argentina Advances Online Betting Ad Ban Bill
Argentina is moving closer to imposing a nationwide ban on advertising for online betting platforms after the Chamber of Deputies overwhelmingly approved a bill targeting gambling addiction. The proposal ( framed as a major public-health initiative ) now awaits debate in the Senate, where it could become one of the country’s most significant social-responsibility reforms in recent years.
Push for Senate Approval
Introduced by the Civic Coalition, the legislation responds to rising concern over the spread of online betting among youth and vulnerable groups. Deputy Maximiliano Ferraro urged senators to withstand industry pressure and act quickly, warning of the growing impact of gambling disorders.
“Gambling addiction threatens lives. Do not let prevention measures fail,” Ferraro stated, appealing for swift Senate action.
Deputy Mónica Frade also criticized President Javier Milei’s administration, accusing it of ignoring gambling-related harm: “This government refuses to confront the destructive cycle pushing thousands of Argentines into debt through betting promoted by influencers.”
Key Elements of the Proposal
Originally approved in November 2024 with 140 votes in favor, 36 against, and 59 abstentions, the bill is now being reviewed by the Senate’s Health, General Legislation and Justice committees. Although the Health Committee opened discussions, progress has since stalled.
A central clause, Article 8, would prohibit “the promotion and sponsorship of betting, gambling and prediction games in all forms ( including digital platforms ) along with welcome bonuses and influencer partnerships.”
Such restrictions would disrupt the current marketing landscape, where celebrity endorsements and sports sponsorships have driven aggressive expansion of betting brands.
Regulation, Penalties and Limits
Advertising would remain permissible only at authorized venues such as casinos, racetracks and lottery outlets. Operating unlicensed gambling services could lead to prison sentences of three to eight years.
Supporters argue the framework protects minors and financially at-risk citizens from the harmful consequences of uncontrolled access to betting.
Regional Context
Online gambling has surged across Argentina, mirroring trends throughout Latin America. Despite generating employment and tax income, legislators warn regulatory progress has not kept pace with market growth.
The bill aligns Argentina with similar movements in Brazil and Chile, where policymakers are considering curbs on gambling promotion amid rising concerns about addiction and economic harm. If enacted, the measure could position Argentina as a leader in responsible gambling policy across the region.
