Mexico Advances Gambling Law Reform Review

Mexico’s proposed reform of the Federal Law on Games and Draws has entered the final stage of its internal government review, according to Interior Secretary Rosa Icela Rodríguez.

The reform was first announced in September 2025 and has since been examined by several federal government agencies. It will next be presented to the security cabinet before potentially moving to Congress for consideration.

Speaking at a morning press conference at the National Palace, Rodríguez said the internal review was almost complete. She explained that the process involved government agencies whose responsibilities could relate to casinos, betting establishments and entertainment centres.

Government Focuses on Casino Oversight

Rodríguez said the proposed legislation had been reviewed by various federal bodies and would next be considered by the security cabinet. Following that stage, the reform could proceed to the legislative process.

The secretary also recalled meeting representatives from the two major industries operating in the sector at the beginning of the current administration. The discussions were intended to establish conditions for how businesses and officials should operate.

Rodríguez stressed that industry representatives should not attempt to corrupt agency personnel and warned that businesses could face closure while officials involved could be imprisoned. She also stated that she does not use intermediaries or representatives to communicate with the industry.

Casino Closures Tied to Financial Crime Measures

Rodríguez said government actions during the past two years have included sanctions and casino closures reportedly associated with money laundering and tax evasion.

The measures have been carried out in cooperation with Mexico’s Attorney General’s Office and the Financial Intelligence Unit of the Ministry of Finance.

The number of reported casino closures remains at 13, although Rodríguez estimated that approximately 20 establishments could be experiencing difficulties. She did not provide a definitive figure for the total number of businesses affected.

Mexico Updates Anti-Money Laundering Framework

Alongside the proposed gambling law reform, Mexico is strengthening its anti-money laundering framework.

In August, the Ministry of Finance and Public Credit published new General Rules in the Official Gazette under the Federal Law for the Prevention and Identification of Transactions with Resources of Illicit Origin.

The rules reinforce requirements for businesses involved in “Vulnerable Activities” a classification that includes gambling, betting games, contests and draws. They also introduce additional compliance standards and define responsibilities for regulated entities and the authorities responsible for supervision and enforcement.

Risk-Based Approach Becomes a Key Requirement

One of the central elements of the updated framework is the use of a Risk Based Approach.

Businesses conducting Vulnerable Activities must identify, assess, classify and document risks connected with customers, transactions, products, services, operating channels and geographic areas.

The rules also strengthen requirements covering customer due diligence, beneficial ownership, politically exposed persons, internal controls, recordkeeping and regulatory reporting.

Supervisory authorities will likewise apply a risk-based approach, directing greater attention toward activities considered more exposed to money laundering risks.

Proportional Compliance and Gradual Implementation

The framework also introduces the concept of proportional compliance, allowing obligations and supervisory measures to vary according to the level of risk associated with a Vulnerable Activity.

Implementation will take place gradually, giving regulated entities time to adjust their internal procedures and develop the necessary compliance capabilities.

The proposed gambling law reform and strengthened anti-money laundering requirements point toward tighter oversight of Mexico’s gaming sector, with greater emphasis on transparency, financial supervision and regulatory compliance.