Mexico's Gaming Sector Challenges Government over Recents Slot Machine Restrictions
Mexico's gaming industry is gearing up for a legal battle against the government's decision to ban slot machines in casinos and gaming halls, a move that has been in place since November 2023. The Association of Permit Holders, Operators, and Suppliers of the Entertainment and Gambling Industry in Mexico (Aieja) is at the forefront of this fight, aiming to create an environment where the concerns of the industry are taken into account and a balanced approach is adopted.
The Federal Law on Games and Sweepstakes, last significantly altered around 80 years ago, is under scrutiny. Aieja believes that a common-sense approach would be to update the country's gambling laws before implementing a ban on slot machines. The association is preparing to mount legal challenges on two fronts: safeguarding the industry's interests and advocating for revisions to the outdated law.
The ban on slot machine permit renewals is scheduled for 2038. However, many casinos, particularly those with permits expiring between 2028 and 2033, are forecast to be significantly affected by this decision. The gaming industry is concerned that the proposed regulations may repel customers from casinos and potentially threaten 180,000 direct and indirect jobs over the next six years. Furthermore, the ban could lead to a potential loss of MXN12 billion (US$700.32 million) in revenue for the current federal government.
The ban on slot machines has been criticized by the gaming sector for disregarding their input. Ochoa, a representative of Aieja, has emphasized ongoing dialogues with the Ministry of the Interior and legislators to initiate discussions on new regulations starting next February. The most likely candidate for the upcoming election is Claudia Sheinbaum, who, as the mayor of Mexico City, led a reform to stabilize the taxes gaming operators paid and is not considered an enemy of the industry. Sheinbaum's recognition of the contributions of the gaming industry to the government could be helpful for Aieja as they look for support in their efforts to change the regulations.
As of August 2025, there is no specific public information available regarding a current legal challenge by the Mexican gaming industry against the slot machine ban. The gaming market in Mexico, which has been regulated since 2004 with expansions in 2020, allowing private operators to apply for licenses in online gambling, is still evolving. However, without details about the legal challenge or government actions, it is not possible to assess the scale or timing of such impacts.
In summary, while a legal challenge against the slot machine ban is yet to be seen, the gaming industry in Mexico is preparing for a potential battle. The ban, if enforced without resolution, could lead to decreased revenue and employment losses in gaming venues. The industry is hoping for a change in the government's stance, particularly with the upcoming election, to find a more balanced approach to the regulation of slot machines.
- The Association of Permit Holders, Operators, and Suppliers of the Entertainment and Gambling Industry in Mexico (Aieja) is mobilizing to challenge the government's ban on slot machines, advocating for an update to the outdated Federal Law on Games and Sweepstakes before its enforcement.
- In reaction to the proposed regulations, Aieja is planning legal actions to safeguard the gaming industry's interests and ensure that the concerns of the sector are addressed in any new legislation regarding Latin American gaming, specifically in Mexico.
