Julio Tamayo's Insights on the Gaming Industry in LatAm

The online gaming industry in Latin America is undergoing a transformation. Julio César Tamayo, CEO of Wplay, spoke with SBC News about critical challenges such as regulatory changes and the increasing competition. These challenges demand a renewed focus on sustainability and governance.

Transformation in the Colombian Market

Today, Colombia is a benchmark in online gaming regulation, although it faces new fiscal complexities. In 2025, a new tax scheme nearly doubled the tax burdens on operators, requiring prompt technological adaptation. The key, according to Tamayo, is to maintain a balance between fiscal sustainability and consumer protection to avoid the growth of the illegal market.

Sustainable Strategies for Growth

According to Tamayo, sustainable growth requires innovation, financial discipline, and solid corporate governance. Operators will need to adjust to an environment where trust and reputation will be central. Competitiveness will now be measured by the ability to generate trust among diverse audiences.

Opportunities in Emerging Markets

Markets such as Brazil and Peru present significant opportunities thanks to their regulatory evolution and legal stability. Tamayo notes that Brazil is particularly attractive due to its size, while Peru stands out for its favorable regulatory development.

Impact of Major Sporting Events

For Wplay, events like the World Cup are true tests of organizational resilience. These moments require total collaboration from internal teams and reflect the importance of strategic preparation for times of high demand.

Artificial Intelligence and the Future of the Sector

Artificial intelligence does not just optimize operations; it also redefines business decision-making. For Tamayo, its potential lies in increasing efficiency and improving risk analysis, always under responsible supervision to strengthen consumer trust.

Responsibility and Sustainability in Gaming

Wplay has expanded its focus on responsible gaming, recognizing that societal trust is more vital than any other operational license. Consumer protection and education are at the core of its strategy to ensure responsible and sustained growth.

Conclusions for the SBC Summit Lisbon 2026

At the summit, a shift in focus towards sustainability and trust is expected. Tamayo anticipates topics such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and regulatory cooperation will lead global discussions, consolidating a stronger industry for the future.