You assume the Presidency at Loterj after several years as Vice President, during a period of significant regulatory development. What changes, if anything, when you move from supporting the strategy to leading it?
The degree of responsibility changes. As Vice President, I participated in building the strategy; as President, I become responsible for execution, regulatory consistency and institutional results. The priority is to continue what has already been built.
An important point is investing in greater integration between regulatory bodies in the construction of tools that can effectively combat the illegal market.
There are ongoing discussions about positioning Rio de Janeiro as a global gaming and entertainment destination. From Loterj’s perspective, what role can regulation play in making this vision viable and what needs to happen for it to become more than just a concept?
Regulation transforms a vision into a safe business environment.
Without clear rules, supervision and bettor protection, the concept cannot be sustained. For Rio to move forward, it is necessary to align regulation, tourism, technology, integrity, revenue generation and public policy.
In 2025, we regulated video lotteries (VLTs) with robust rules based on the most modern and secure practices from the world’s most mature markets. This is an example of how a regulator can help create a business environment that generates positive impact for several sectors and for society.
In a sector evolving as rapidly as gaming, how does Loterj balance stability with the need for constant adaptation?
The balance comes from stable principles and flexible instruments.
Legal certainty, responsible gaming and compliance do not change; what must evolve are supervision mechanisms, technology, monitoring and dialogue with the market and other government entities.
Loterj has highlighted regulatory supervision and compliance as central pillars. What are the next priorities for strengthening oversight as the market continues to expand?
Strengthening regulatory intelligence, operator auditing, real-time monitoring, anti-money laundering measures, data protection, gambling addiction prevention and cooperation channels with other public bodies.
As Vice President, I participated in building the strategy; as President, I become responsible for execution, regulatory consistency and institutional results. The priority is to continue what has already been built
What role can state lotteries such as Loterj realistically play in reducing illegal activity and what are the limits of that role?
State lotteries can help reduce the illegal market by offering a regulated, supervised and competitive environment.
There are regional aspects that need to be considered in a country with continental dimensions and such diversity.
Full enforcement requires cooperation involving states, the Federal Government, the judiciary, police, the financial system, digital platforms and consumer protection bodies.
Which elements of the previous administration’s legacy do you consider essential to preserve, and where do you see room to evolve or challenge what has been built?
The essential legacy is the modernization of Loterj and Rio’s pioneering position in state-level regulation. The space for evolution lies in deepening governance, transparency, technological oversight and institutional coordination.
From the perspective of a lottery regulator, how do you view the expansion of other gaming segments, as complementary to the sector or as a potential source of imbalance?
It can be complementary, provided it is regulated with equivalent standards of integrity, responsibility and supervision. The risk arises when different segments operate under regulatory asymmetry, creating competitive imbalances or consumer protection gaps.
Loterj has participated in initiatives linked to economic development, including international forums. How do you see the relationship between gaming regulation and public and social policy goals evolving over the coming years?
The trend is toward greater integration between gaming regulation and public policy, based on the premise that the purpose of lottery activity is investment in social public policies. In this context, the sector should increasingly focus on transparent allocation of resources, strengthening consumer protection and promoting responsible gaming.
At the same time, participation in international forums helps align Rio with global best practices. The challenge will be balancing economic development with social responsibility, ensuring legal certainty and positive impact for society.
How do you view Rio de Janeiro’s contribution to the national debate on regulation?
Rio contributes because it has pioneered paths, faced real challenges and anticipated discussions that are now national.
Loterj’s experience shows that state-level regulation is relevant, provided it operates with responsibility, compliance and coordination with the federal framework. Loterj itself defines its role as focused on the protection of bettors and operators and on guaranteeing a formal, ethical and responsible market.
Proposing modern regulatory scenarios and demonstrating the applicability and efficiency of a project are contributions we take seriously.
Brazil has (as always) seen plenty of political developments this week, with everything from betting tax collection to gambling among the elderly population being discussed
