The Brazilian Institute for Responsible Gaming (IBJR) has appointed Carlos Lima as its new executive president. Lima brings a wealth of experience in government relations, advocacy, and public policy development to the role, which comes at a pivotal time for Brazil's regulated fixed-odds betting and online gaming market. His leadership will focus on enhancing technical and institutional dialogue with the federal government, Congress, regulatory bodies, and civil society, with the aim of improving the regulated environment and increasing the value of authorized companies operating under Brazilian law.
Lima emphasized the importance of data-driven action in the evolving betting market, stating, "The maturation of the betting market in Brazil requires actions guided by data, transparency, governance and legal certainty. A regulated environment is the main tool to guarantee consumer protection, the integrity of the activity and the sustainable development of the sector."
He described regulation as a critical factor in differentiating authorized operations from illegal platforms. "Regulation should be understood as a seal of safety for the consumer," Lima said. "It establishes clear rules, protection mechanisms, responsible gaming policies and compliance obligations that do not exist in the illegal market. Strengthening the regulated market means protecting Brazilian citizens and creating conditions for investments, jobs and tax revenue to remain in the country."
Lima's career has involved leading strategic initiatives around institutional relations, corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and regulation in economically and socially important sectors. His experience includes collaboration between public and private sectors to develop transparent and sustainable regulatory frameworks.
Andre Gelfi, a co-founder of IBJR and a key figure in the sector's regulatory process, will continue his involvement with the organization as a board member and director. He will help maintain the institutional agenda and bolster the regulated market in conjunction with the other board members.
IBJR was established to promote a safe, responsible betting market that adheres to international best practices. The organization comprises many of Brazil's leading licensed operators and is dedicated to maintaining integrity, protecting consumers, and supporting the sustainable development of the betting industry.
Its mission is to create an ethical, sustainable, and responsible online betting ecosystem while advocating for a regulated market. The organization's efforts are anchored in two primary areas: combating illegal gambling and promoting responsible gaming. IBJR believes that effective regulation is vital for enhancing the sector, supporting the economy, and ensuring safety for both bettors and operators. The organization actively combats illegal betting, which endangers the industry and society as a whole.
Among its member operators are A2FBR, BandBet, Bet365, BetBoom, BetMGM, Betsson Group, Entain (Sportingbet and Betboo), Flutter Brazil (Betfair and Betnacional), Kaizen Gaming (Betano), KTO Group, Novibet, SkillOnNet (Bacana Play and PlayUzu), and Todos Querem Jogar (Bet do Milhão). Members also include associates Better Collective, Clever Advertising, OKTO, and Unico.
