Peru: LatAm regulatory leader, but taxes cause tension
Peru continues to position itself as one of the strongest examples of regulation in the online gaming industry in Latin America. The General Directorate of Games of the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (MINCETUR) was recently recognized as the best regional regulator at the SBC awards, thanks to its work in implementing a clear legal framework, unlimited licenses, and efficient technical supervision.
However, during the debates held at SBC Lisbon 2025, the country’s main operators expressed their concern about the impact of the current fiscal policy. The 1% selective consumption tax on turnover, combined with the 12% special gaming tax, has raised alarms in the sector.
Gonzalo Rosell, CEO of La Tinka, warned that this burden “will have a direct effect on the profitability of operations and will encourage the illegal market.” Along the same lines, Xabier Maribona, general director of RetaBet, anticipated that “these conditions could lead to mergers and exits of operators from the Peruvian market.”
Executives from Apuesta Total and Estelarbet agreed that the Peruvian regulatory framework is a benchmark due to its modern structure and openness to competition, although they insisted that the tax pressure threatens to reverse the progress made.
In contrast, Juana Bischoff, regional head of Odin.gg, highlighted the rapid expansion of the eSports market in the country, with a 66% revenue growth and a community “as passionate as that of football.” For the executive, Peru has a unique opportunity to strengthen this vertical through live events and partnerships with gaming brands.
Industry leaders agreed that the future of the market depends on maintaining a balance between control and competitiveness. They emphasized the regulator’s role in player protection and the fight against illegal platforms, but also called for a review of taxes so as not to discourage formalization.
“Peru has everything to be the beacon of the region: modern regulation, committed operators, and a solid ecosystem. The only thing threatening its shine is taxes,” concluded one of the panel participants.
Tags: Peru, Peru regulation, Peru betting regulation, Peru betting taxes