Panama Lawmakers Approve Measures to Restrict Online Gambling Market

(AsiaGameHub) –   Panama is enhancing its national policies concerning problem gambling in response to the expanding online gambling sector.

The National Assembly has approved a bill, introduced by deputies Raúl Pineda and Crispiano Adames, which introduces several regulations for online casinos. These measures are intended to provide an additional layer of protection for vulnerable individuals susceptible to problem gambling.

A key provision of the bill establishes a mandatory 10% levy on operator earnings. These funds will be directed to the Institute of Mental Health (INSAM) to support the development of problem gambling programs and a specialized care center within Panama.

The bill also mandates the implementation of an obligatory biometric identification system across online platforms to prevent underage participation.

Furthermore, advertising is set to face significant restrictions. Gambling marketing will be prohibited across various media channels, social media platforms, and sports. The use of public figures and influencers to promote gambling will also be banned.

The Gaming Control Board (JCJ) will be responsible for overseeing these restrictions and will be equipped with the necessary tools for real-time detection of violations.

Violations of these regulations will result in financial penalties of up to 10% of an operator’s revenue, alongside the potential suspension of their license and the initiation of criminal proceedings.

Regarding problem gambling education, the bill proposes the introduction of educational programs in schools nationwide. Payment methods will also be restricted to help minimize financial debt and uncontrolled spending.

With the National Assembly’s endorsement, the bill will now be presented to José Raúl Mulino Quintero, President of Panama, for final approval before it can be enacted.

This legislation aligns with a broader trend of increased regulatory and tax framework tightening across Latin America. For instance, Brazil is raising its tax rate on gross gaming revenues (GGR) in its developing gambling market from 12% to 18% by 2027.

Tax measures in Colombia and Peru are also causing challenges for operators focused on or interested in Latin America, a region that has long attracted industry attention and was perceived as offering significant opportunities.