The Mexican government has allowed casinos to operate under licenses issued by the Ministry of the Interior (SEGOB), although the industry has remained tightly controlled and often subject to political scrutiny.
In recent years, there has been increasing discussion around reforming the country's outdated gambling laws. The current regulatory structure, based on the Federal Gaming and Raffles Law, lacks clarity and has led to inconsistencies in enforcement. Many operators work under sub-licenses, and questions about transparency and legality persist.
Despite the regulatory hurdles, the gambling industry in Mexico has shown steady growth. Cities like Tijuana, Monterrey, and Mexico City host numerous casinos, offering slot machines, sports betting, and electronic table games. Some establishments even operate in conjunction with hotel and entertainment venues, attracting both domestic and international tourists.
The rise of online gambling has added complexity to the legal landscape. While not explicitly legalized, online platforms often operate in a gray area, some of them licensed abroad but accessible to Mexican residents.
As pressure mounts to modernize gambling regulations, lawmakers continue to debate reforms that would enhance oversight, protect consumers, and bring more tax revenue to the federal government. Until then, gambling houses in Mexico will continue to operate in a legally ambiguous — yet highly lucrative — environment.
