Peru cites gambling tax growth as market formalization advances

Peru's regulated gambling and sports betting sector generated more than PEN266m ($74m) in tax revenue between January and May 2026, according to figures released by the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Mincetur). 

Authorities said the results reflect the impact of the country's efforts to formalize online gaming and sports betting activities.

The ministry reported that the total includes revenue generated through taxes on online gaming and sports betting operations, as well as contributions from land-based gambling activities. Mincetur said the figures demonstrate the performance of the regulatory framework introduced to oversee the sector.

According to the ministry, Peru currently has 60 authorized online gaming and sports betting operators, along with 280 registered service providers linked to the industry. Authorities said the licensing system has helped bring gambling activity under regulatory supervision while increasing compliance among market participants.

Mincetur also highlighted enforcement measures aimed at reducing illegal gambling activity. The ministry reported that 15% of unauthorized websites identified in the market have been removed, while financial institutions have blocked access to services linked to 40% of illegal operators detected by authorities.

Officials said these actions form part of a broader strategy to strengthen the regulated market and encourage consumers to use licensed platforms. The government has repeatedly argued that formalization improves oversight, consumer protection and tax collection.

Peru was one of the first countries in Latin America to establish a dedicated regulatory framework for online gaming and sports betting. Since the market's regulation, authorities have emphasized the importance of balancing tax collection, enforcement and market oversight.

The figures were released as debate continues over Peru's gambling tax framework, with industry representatives challenging the current system while authorities highlight growing tax revenue and compliance levels.