The Federal Law on Games and Draws in Mexico is nearing the end of its internal review process, as confirmed by Interior Secretary Rosa Icela Rodríguez. Initially announced in September 2025, the law has gone through several assessments since its conception.
Rodríguez stated that the internal review, conducted with various governmental agencies connected to casinos, betting establishments, and entertainment venues, is almost completed. The revised proposal will soon be discussed at a meeting of the security cabinet.
A key highlight of the new regulatory framework is the introduction of a Risk-Based Approach. This framework mandates entities engaged in Vulnerable Activities to identify, assess, classify, and document risks related to customers, transactions, products, services, operational channels, and geographic areas.
The updated regulations enhance customer due diligence and require the identification of beneficial owners and politically exposed persons. They establish protocols for internal controls, recordkeeping, and reporting to supervisory authorities. This oversight is designed to combat money laundering by concentrating efforts on higher-risk activities.
Under this framework, the concept of 'proportional compliance' is applied, suggesting that obligations and oversight can differ based on the level of risk associated with a specific Vulnerable Activity. The implementation of the law will occur progressively, allowing regulated entities the necessary time to adjust their processes and bolster their compliance capabilities.
The reform aims to establish a more rigorously regulated gambling industry in Mexico, focusing on transparency, financial oversight, and adherence to regulations, including measures to counter money laundering.
