Portugal is in the Game

In Portugal, gambling has become pervasive, with significant spending on various forms of betting, including online casinos and scratch cards. In 2025, over €3 billion was spent on gambling, raising concerns about addiction, especially among youth. The World Health Organization recognizes gambling addiction as a serious issue, comparable to substance abuse. Despite the risks, advertising for betting companies remains prevalent, prompting calls for stricter regulations. Other countries have implemented measures to limit gambling advertising, and recent proposals in Portugal aim to address these concerns. The debate centers on balancing regulation with public health, as the economic benefits of gambling often overshadow its social costs.