Peru’s gaming sector is playing an increasingly important role in supporting the country’s tourism ecosystem. It contributes more than 120 million soles toward development and marketing initiatives. This is according to Fernando Calderón Castro, President of the National Society of Games of Chance (SONAJA).
These funds are generated through taxes applied to land-based casinos, slot machines, and online gaming platforms. A portion is allocated to the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Mincetur) to support tourism promotion, infrastructure development, and regulatory oversight.
Strong Tax Revenues Highlight Industry Growth
Despite structural shifts in the market, Peru’s gaming industry continues to show strong fiscal contribution. Total tax collection from gaming operations reached approximately 465 million soles last year. This underscores the sector’s growing relevance to the national economy.
However, this growth has not been evenly distributed across the industry. Land-based casinos have experienced a gradual contraction, with fewer venues and declining revenues. This was largely driven by shifting consumer preference toward digital gaming platforms.
Different Tax Allocation Models for Land-Based and Online Gaming
Peru applies distinct revenue distribution frameworks depending on the type of gaming activity.
For land-based gaming, tax allocations are distributed as follows:
- 60% to provincial and district municipalities hosting gaming operators
- 15% to Mincetur
- 10% to the Peruvian Institute of Sport (IPD)
- 15% to the Public Treasury
For online gaming, the structure differs:
- 40% to Mincetur
- 20% to mental health programmes
- 20% to IPD
- 20% to the Public Treasury
These differentiated frameworks reflect the government’s attempt to balance regional development, public funding priorities, and sector regulation.
Industry Raises Concerns Over Tax Pressure and Regulation
Despite strong revenue contributions, industry representatives have raised concerns over what they describe as excessive taxation and regulatory pressure. Calderón Castro criticised the application of additional taxes such as the Selective Consumption Tax (ISC) on land-based gaming operators. He argued that it overlaps with existing gaming taxes.
He warned that overly aggressive taxation structures could reduce industry viability. This could lead to job losses and encourage growth in illegal gambling markets.
According to industry stakeholders, excessive fiscal burdens may unintentionally push players toward unregulated platforms. Ultimately, this would reduce state revenue and undermine regulatory objectives.
Gaming Sector Supports Tourism and Local Economies
Beyond taxation, Peru’s gaming industry continues to play a significant role in supporting tourism development, particularly in regions such as Tacna. In these areas, casinos attract foreign visitors.
This influx contributes to broader economic activity by increasing demand for hotels, restaurants, and local services. As a result, it strengthens the link between gaming venues and tourism-driven economic growth across the country.
