The Senate of Mexico has approved a landmark fiscal reform. It raises the Special Tax on Production and Services for online gambling from 30% to 50%. The AIEJA, or Asociación de Permisionarios, Operadores y Proveedores de la Industria del Entretenimiento y Juego de Apuesta, has strongly opposed the measure. The association expressed deep disappointment, warning that it could harm licensed operators and reduce the country’s overall economic attractiveness.
Lawmakers adopted the reform as part of a comprehensive fiscal package. Lawmakers passed the reform with 75 votes for and 37 against during the general discussion. They approved it with 76 votes for and 34 against during the specific review. The Ministry of Finance states that the tax adjustment aims to raise more revenue, targeting MXN 761.5 billion (over USD 40 billion) next year. This represents a 10% increase from the estimated 2025 collection.
The gambling industry has raised concerns about the economic strain the new tax rate will place on operators. The government, however, defends the move as necessary to strengthen public finances. AIEJA argues that smaller companies will struggle with higher operational costs. This could force some to exit the market or scale back their activities.
AIEJA noted that the higher tax will likely deter investment. It could also slow growth in Mexico’s regulated gambling market, which has expanded significantly in recent years. The association said that this decision risks driving legitimate operators out of business while letting illegal platforms to thrive.
Representing a large portion of Mexico’s betting market, the group also emphasized that the reform does not address illegal gambling. According to AIEJA, 60% of online gambling options available to Mexican players are unlicensed or illegal. These platforms operate outside the country’s tax and consumer protection systems.
AIEJA warned that ignoring this issue could inadvertently fuel a thriving black market, undermining the intended fiscal goals. The association called for effective measures to combat illegal gambling. It also urged policymakers to collaborate with the industry to better understand its structure before implementing such far-reaching changes.
