Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is reportedly preparing to publish a presidential decree that would impose new restrictions on online gambling. These will include limits on betting access and tighter advertising rules. The move signals an escalation in Lula’s increasingly vocal opposition to the regulated betting market launched in January 2025.
According to a report by journalist Lauro Jardim in O Globo, the decree is being developed in coordination with Brazil’s Ministries of Finance, Planning, and Justice. This indicates a coordinated policy push across multiple government departments.
Proposed Ban Targets Debt Refinancing Programme Participants
One of the key measures expected in the decree is a ban on online betting for individuals enrolled in an upcoming government debt refinancing programme. While details of the refinancing initiative have not yet been officially confirmed, the reported restriction reflects the administration’s growing concern over household debt levels. It also reflects their concern over the financial impact of online gambling expansion.
The proposed approach would not shut down the broader gambling market. However, it would restrict access for financially vulnerable groups deemed most at risk.
Advertising Restrictions Could Target Harmful Gambling Messaging
In addition to access limits, the decree is expected to introduce new marketing restrictions aimed at preventing advertising practices that encourage compulsive or excessive gambling. Furthermore, reports suggest the measures will also target campaigns perceived to exploit or appeal directly to individuals with gambling addiction.
However, the government has not yet clarified how it will define prohibited advertising behaviour. In addition, it has not outlined how compliance will be monitored across digital platforms.
Lula’s Opposition Has Intensified Ahead of 2026 Election
Despite approving Brazil’s regulated online gaming and sports betting framework in 2023, Lula has become increasingly critical of the industry in recent months. With Brazil’s general election scheduled for 4 October 2026, his stance has become more aggressive. Earlier in April, he made comments suggesting he would personally prefer to shut down all bookmakers operating in the country.
While the reported decree does not go as far as a full market shutdown, it reflects a clear shift toward tighter restrictions and stronger political pressure on the sector.
Wider Political Push Includes Proposal to Repeal Betting Law
The decree follows broader legislative pressure from within Lula’s party. Deputy Pedro Uczai recently introduced Bill PL-1808/2026, proposing the full prohibition of fixed-odds betting nationwide. This would include the operation, promotion, and facilitation of online betting services.
The National Association of Games and Lotteries (ANJL) warned that such measures could weaken the regulated market and push gambling activity toward unlicensed platforms. As a result, this would reduce oversight and consumer protection.
Household Debt Levels Reach Record High
The government’s push for stricter gambling controls comes as Brazil’s household debt burden continues to rise. Data from Brazil’s central bank shows that household debt service reached 29.3% of income in January 2026. This is the highest level recorded since tracking began in March 2011.
This economic backdrop is fuelling political concerns that online gambling growth has contributed to worsening financial pressure on Brazilian families.
Election Outcome May Shape Long-Term Gambling Policy
Industry observers suggest Lula’s long-term regulatory agenda may depend heavily on the outcome of the October 2026 election. Current polling indicates a close race between Lula and Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, with Lula holding only a narrow lead.
If Lula retains power, further regulatory tightening could follow. If not, Brazil’s gambling policy direction may shift again, leaving the market facing continued uncertainty during its early growth phase.
