Loterj invited to join UN Tourism initiative

Loterj, Rio de Janeiro’s state lottery, has received a formal invitation to join an initiative led by UN Tourism, becoming the first gambling authority in Brazil to be invited to participate in the organization’s strategic network.

On the same date, Embratur, Brazil’s national tourism promotion agency, also joined the initiative, reinforcing efforts to position Rio de Janeiro as a center for discussions linking tourism, innovation and economic development.

“This invitation is recognition of the work Rio has been doing to connect tourism and development. Legal gaming, when properly regulated, can be an important ally in generating jobs, attracting investment and strengthening tourism,” said Hazenclever Lopes Cançado, President of Loterj.

According to data from Brazil’s Ministry of Tourism, the legalization of gaming could increase the tourism sector’s contribution to the country’s GDP from 8% to 12%, while potentially generating up to 20% more jobs in the industry.

In Rio de Janeiro specifically, officials argue that regulation of video lottery terminals and the development of sports bar venues could create up to 65,000 formal jobs within the next two years while boosting local investment and economic activity.

Regulated entertainment offerings are also expected to increase visitor stay durations and stimulate sectors such as hospitality, food services, transportation and retail. 

Meanwhile, lottery revenues continue to support social initiatives, with Loterj reporting a 4,530% increase in funding directed to programs supporting vulnerable communities, rising from BR1.3m ($246,810) in 2021 to BR45m in 2025, marking a more than fortyfold rise over four years.

The announcement comes amid strong tourism growth in the state. In 2025, Rio de Janeiro welcomed more than 12.5 million visitors, including 2.1 million international tourists, marking the sector’s strongest performance in more than three decades.