Argentina Approves a Bill to Ban Online Betting Ads

The Argentine Chamber of Deputies has passed legislation aimed at prohibiting advertisements for online betting, with the intention of safeguarding children from the potential dangers associated with gambling. Thus, Argentina Approves a Bill to Ban Online Betting Ads amongst other bans for online sports betting companies.

On 27 November, during a special session, the chamber approved the federal bill with a vote of 139 in favor and 36 against. Additionally, there were 59 abstentions recorded in Argentina.

The bill is now set to be reviewed by the senate, which will consider the perspectives of various stakeholders, including Argentinian football clubs, prior to making a decision on the bill's advancement.

Article 8 of the bill prohibits advertising, promotion, and sponsorship of sports betting software across all communication channels. This prohibition extends to digital platforms, such as social media, as well as outdoor venues like public roadways. 

Argentina Approves a Bill to Ban Online Betting Ads, Sponsorship, Bonuses and more

Article 8 further stipulates that online operators are prohibited from sponsoring sports teams or individual athletes. This prohibition extends to the use of the company's name for the identification of sports venues, including stadiums and training facilities. Furthermore, the advertisement of online gambling through signage at these locations will also be prohibited.

Restrictions will be placed on influencer advertising, as well as on endorsements from athletes, celebrities, public figures, or fictional characters.

Should the bill be enacted, welcome bonuses will be prohibited. Additionally, operators will be required to implement biometric facial recognition technology to ensure that minors cannot gain access to their services.

Conversely, Article 9 permits promotional marketing for sportsbook advertising and promotion within gambling establishments and authorized lottery sales locations. However, such marketing must incorporate a warning statement that reads, "compulsive gambling is harmful to you and your family." 

Key Provisions of the Argentinian Bill Banning Gambling Ads

The proposed legislation establishes various measures aimed at regulating online gambling and reducing its associated risks:

1.       Comprehensive Advertising Ban: Article 8 prohibits any form of advertising, promotion, or sponsorship related to online gambling across all communication channels, including digital platforms, social media, and public areas.

2.       Sponsorship Restrictions: Gambling operators are forbidden from sponsoring sports teams and athletes, and sports venues may not bear the names of gambling companies.

3.       Ban on Celebrity Endorsements: The use of endorsements from celebrities, athletes, public figures, or fictional characters in gambling advertisements is prohibited.

4.       Elimination of Welcome Bonuses: The legislation will abolish the practice of offering welcome bonuses by online gambling operators.

5.       Mandatory Biometric Verification: To combat underage gambling, operators will be required to implement biometric facial recognition systems to ensure that minors are unable to access online gambling services.

6.       Regulated Advertising in Designated Areas: Article 9 permits advertising within licensed gambling establishments and lottery sales points, provided that such advertisements include warnings regarding the risks of compulsive gambling.