Last week, I had the privilege of moderating one of the most highly anticipated panels at GAT Mexico 2025—a deep dive into the future of Mexican gaming law. The session brought together distinguished legal experts and sparked a powerful discussion on how the framework has evolved, and how the industry can grow responsibly while adapting to rapid change.
Historical Context: A 1947 Law in a 2025 World
Mexico’s gaming law, in place since 1947, has provided the backbone for a regulated market spanning land-based casinos and online operations. While the framework wasn’t designed for today’s digital-first environment, it has supported an industry that drives employment, taxation, and entertainment nationwide.
Now, with the rise of online platforms and integrated gaming models, the law faces pressure to modernize. The panel agreed that updating the framework could bring clarity, attract new investment, and align Mexico with international best practices—without losing sight of the country’s unique priorities.
Key Insights from the Panel
1. Defining Gambling vs. Social Play
A clear distinction between gambling with stakes and casual gaming is essential. This prevents unnecessary barriers for non-gambling sectors and sharpens oversight where financial risk is involved.
2. Regulatory Continuity Builds Trust
Panelists emphasized that clarity and consistency are not constraints—they’re catalysts. Transparent, long-term regulation builds confidence for investors, operators, and suppliers, fostering an environment for responsible innovation.
3. Balancing Growth and Player Protection
A modernized framework should not just unlock economic potential—it must also protect players. Strong responsible gambling measures and transparency can ensure that the industry delivers jobs, tax revenue, tourism, and community benefits without compromising integrity.
My Role as Moderator
As moderator, I worked to connect diverse perspectives and highlight shared interests. Across the board, there was consensus: Mexico’s market is highly attractive, and modernization will only amplify opportunities for operators, suppliers, investors, and international partnerships.
I stressed that predictable regulation benefits everyone—from players, who gain safer, clearer experiences, to companies, who can innovate under a stable framework. Done right, Mexico can cement its status as a regional leader in LATAM gaming.
Looking Ahead: A Market on the Verge
Updating Mexico’s Gaming Law won’t happen overnight. But the constructive dialogue at GAT Mexico shows that stakeholders—regulators, operators, suppliers, and associations—are aligned in building a framework that balances oversight with growth.
Mexico is already a powerhouse market in the region. With modernization, it has the potential to strengthen trust, attract global investment, and deliver even greater value to society. The momentum is here—the only question is how quickly the industry will seize it.
