Online Gambling in Mexico
Laws and Regulations
The online gambling market in Mexico is primarily regulated by the Federal Games and Draws Law of 1947, which was updated in 2004 to include provisions for online gambling. The Ministry of the Interior (SEGOB) oversees the licensing and regulation through the Directorate General for Gaming and Raffles (DGJS).
Operators must obtain a license from the DGJS, ensuring compliance with technical standards, data security, and responsible gambling measures. Only Mexican entities can hold these licenses, and the licensing period can extend up to 25 years.
Market Size
The online gambling market in Mexico has been growing rapidly, with an estimated market value of $1.9 billion by 2023. The rise in internet penetration, coupled with the increasing popularity of online sports betting and casino games, has driven this growth. Mexican players have shown a strong preference for sports betting, particularly on soccer, which is the most popular sport in the country.
Locally Licensed Operators
Several locally licensed operators dominate the Mexican online gambling market. These include:
- Caliente: One of the largest and most well-known operators, offering a wide range of sports betting and casino games.
- PlayCity: Operated by Grupo Televisa, offering online casinos and sports betting.
- Codere: A major international operator with a significant presence in Mexico, providing both online and land-based gambling services. Codere does offer a a limited range of live dealer games to its customers from Mexico.
International Operators
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Despite Mexico’s regulations, many Mexican players also access international online gambling sites that operate in a legal grey area. These sites often provide a wider variety of casino games and better odds compared to locally licensed operators. Furthermore, many of the international operators participating in Mexico’s market are reputable, globally recognised brands.
