Online Gambling in Peru
Background
Peru has long been known for its rich gambling culture, with deep roots in traditional forms of betting and gaming that date back to pre-Columbian times. Over the years, this culture has evolved, integrating modern forms of gambling such as casinos, lotteries, and sports betting into everyday life.
Peru is considered one of the most vibrant gambling markets in Latin America, with a diverse array of options available to both residents and tourists. The Peruvian population’s increasing familiarity with digital technologies, coupled with a growing interest in sports betting, especially around football, has made online gambling an increasingly popular pastime. The country’s strategic location in South America, with a time zone that aligns well with major international sporting events, has further fuelled the demand for online betting services.
Ruleta Latinoamerica @ bet365, with dealers chatting in Español
Until recently Peru had no specific laws addressing online gambling and the market was treated by international operators as grey…happily accepting Peruvian customers in the absence of any local regulation or oversight. This changed in 2022 when the government took decisive action to regulate the market comprehensively.
On August 13, 2022, Peru enacted Law No. 31557, a landmark piece of legislation that provided a clear legal framework for online sports betting and gaming.
Current Regulations
Law No. 31557 governs all online gambling in Peru, with the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (MINCETUR) designated as the primary regulatory authority responsible for overseeing the industry. Key aspects of the regulations are as follows:
- Licensing: All online gambling operators must obtain a license from MINCETUR to legally operate in Peru. Operators are required to have a physical presence in Peru ensuring they are accountable to Peruvian authorities. This includes maintaining a registered office within the country and operating their service from a locally hosted ‘.pe’ domain.
- Tax: Operators are taxed at 12% of net winnings.
- Permitted gambling categories: A very broad range of online gambling categories are permitted:
– Sports betting including regular sports bets, live in-play betting, betting on esports and virtual sports
– RNG casino games including RNG slots and table games
– Poker including pier to pier cash tables and tournaments
– Live dealer games
– Lottery and Bingo games - Advertising: Unlicensed operators are banned from advertising their services inside Peru. While licensed operators must include messages promoting responsible gambling in all advertisements and cannot target minors or other vulnerable groups.
Bacara Rapido @ Stake
Major Operators
Peru’s regulated market opened February 2024 and the first tranche of licenses were awarded throughout 2024. Among the early licensees were a mix of established local brands and international brands including:
- Te Apuesto: Operated by Intralot de Peru a leading local brand known for its extensive network of physical betting shops, Te Apuesto offers a full range of online betting services including sports betting and casino games.
- bet365: Renowned international brand bet365 launched their ‘.pe’ service for Peruvian players in August 2024. A full suite of betting options were available at launch including sports (including eSports and Fantasy), RNG casino, live dealer casino, and poker rooms.
- Stake: The juggernaut crypto casino and sportsbook secured a license from MINCETUR in August. They will be offering their full range of crypto funded betting products including live dealer casino games.
Best live casinos for Peruvian players
These casinos offer a great range of live dealer games, including tables with dealers chatting in Spanish. Your account can be maintained in Peruvian Sol or USD at bet365. Stake accounts are crypto funded.
