Three more operators join race for Buenos Aires licences

Three more high-profile gaming operators have entered the race to secure online gambling licences in Argentina’s capital province of Buenos Aires.

Bet365, Betway and Codere LatAm, a subsidiary of the Madrid-listed operator, have all entered into joint ventures with local operators, and registered to file a licence application.

Via its Hillside (New Media Malta) subsidiary, bet365 has partnered bingo hall operator Pasteko, while Betway has paired up with Bingo King. Codere LatAm, meanwhile, will work with slot and bingo hall operator Iberargen.

With the June 25 deadline for interested parties to register their intention to apply for a licence fast approaching, there are now 10 companies that will compete for the province’s seven igaming licences.

Of this number, the majority involve joint ventures between international operators and local partners. It was previously announced that the Stars Group had partnered Atlantica de Juegos, with William Hill sealing a deal with ArgenBingo, and Flutter Entertainment with Bingo Pilar. Each of these local partners are bingo operators.

Intralot, meanwhile, will work with casino operator BinBaires and Playtech has paired off with Hotel Casino Tandil. Two local operators, Biyemas and Slots Machines SA, look set to go it alone.

The winning bidders will be granted a 15-year operating licence, for which they must pay AR$65m  (£1.3m/€1.3m/$1.4m). They will be able to offer online casino games including slots, sports betting, poker and betting on horse racing, and will pay a 25% tax on gross revenue.

Lawmakers Buenos Aires province passed gambling regulations in December last year, which were then signed into law by Governor María Eugenia Vidal in April this year. The market will be regulated by the Buenos Aires Provincial Institute of Lottery and Casinos (IPLyC).