Mexico is in the process of revamping its gambling laws to address issues of money laundering and tax fraud within casinos.
Rosa Icela Rodríguez, the Interior Secretary, revealed that the Ministry of the Interior (Segob) has proposed a new law, which is under review by Mexico’s Security Cabinet.
The current Federal Gaming and Sweepstakes Law in Mexico dates back to 1947, and there is a call from gambling operators for it to be updated.
Despite outdated laws, the gambling market in Mexico continues to expand. Codere Online highlighted Mexico as a significant growth driver after achieving record quarterly results in July.
While the proposed law faces several hurdles, efforts to update Mexico’s gambling laws have been ongoing for years. Rodríguez noted that approval from the Security Cabinet is necessary before advancing the legislation to Congress.
Segob had previously announced plans to reform the gambling framework in September 2025, and Rodríguez’s recent remarks suggest that the process is in its final internal stages.
The Interior Secretary emphasized that around 20 casinos are facing enforcement actions due to suspected financial misconduct.
Sanctions, closures, and other measures have impacted approximately 20 properties, including 13 casinos, involving investigations into money laundering and tax fraud by Mexico’s Attorney General’s Office and the Finance Ministry’s Financial Intelligence Unit.
Rodríguez stressed that casinos adhering to tax regulations, proper employee registration, and workers’ rights should not face issues with the ongoing investigations.
She also cautioned businesses involved in bribery, noting that they could be shut down, and government officials found accepting payments might face legal consequences. Rodríguez advised operators not to corrupt Interior Ministry personnel.
To prevent corruption during casino inspections, Segob has implemented measures for operators to record government inspectors and vice versa using their phones.
Rodríguez emphasized the importance of having evidence to resolve any disputes that may arise during inspections.