On the iGaming map of Latin America, Argentina stands out as both an enticing and complex territory. On one hand, it boasts a deep-rooted culture of football, horse racing, and gambling—forming a fertile ground for iGaming operators. It's also one of the few Latin American countries that legalized iGaming early on. On the other hand, unlike Mexico or Colombia, Argentina's regulatory framework is entirely unique. There’s no national-level licensing system—instead, it has adopted a more localized and pragmatic approach: provincial-level leadership with gradual market opening.

This model of “regional legislation + cultural embedding” has enabled Argentina’s iGaming market to grow rapidly in recent years, revealing enormous potential. In 2025, with reforms in exchange rate policies, upgrades to the payment system, and adjustments in taxation, Argentina’s iGaming market has become more accessible—but also more nuanced. From platform compliance and supplier certifications to advertising restrictions and local payment preferences, every step requires precision and strategy.

In this article, the team at TC-Gaming White Label will walk you through a complete breakdown of:

1. The real structure of Argentina’s gambling licenses (Hint: that “national license” you’ve heard about doesn’t actually exist)
2. Which provinces are open for business—and which are still on the fence
3. How to apply for a license, handle taxes, and ensure compliance
4. And most importantly, how to choose a tech platform that can truly localize in Argentina

Whether you’re an international gambling operator or a platform aiming to enter the South American iGaming scene, this article will take you beyond just “knowing about Argentina”—you’ll understand the landscape inside and out.

Overview of the Argentine iGaming Market

A Century of Gambling History and a New Digital Wave

Gambling is far from new in Argentina. In fact, the country has over 100 years of gambling history. As early as 1912, the Tigre Club on the outskirts of Buenos Aires began operating as a luxury social venue, and in 1927, Argentina officially opened its first casino.

Over the following decades, casinos spread across the country, creating a network of over 170 establishments today. These are not just gambling venues—they include fine dining and live entertainment, playing a vital role in the local economy and entertainment culture.

However, the true explosion of iGaming occurred only in the last five years. Since 2020, multiple provinces have rolled out their own iGaming regulations, allowing platforms to legally apply for licenses and operate online. By 2023, Argentina’s iGaming market revenue reached approximately $450 million. The entire gambling industry is projected to grow to $4.26 billion by 2029.

Most importantly, this is just the appetizer—eight more provinces are actively working on legislation. Once fully open, Argentina could offer a vibrant, nationwide, and regulated iGaming ecosystem.

Data-Backed Opportunities: Why Argentina Matters in iGaming

1. Key Statistics from 2023:
2. $450 million – Estimated revenue from Argentina’s iGaming market
3. $4.26 billion – Forecasted total gambling revenue by 2029
4. 15 provinces – Have implemented iGaming regulations

In the broader Latin American iGaming market, Argentina may not be as large as Brazil or Mexico—but it enjoys first-mover advantages. Early adoption, clear regulations, and cultural alignment make it a market that is both enterable and sustainable for operators and investors alike.

Argentina’s Cultural DNA: Horse Racing + Football = Organic User Flow

Argentina is the most developed horse racing country in Latin America. It boasts three of the region’s top racecourses, and horse betting has been legally accepted in many provinces for years. The mindset of “placing a bet” is already ingrained in the culture.

And of course, when it comes to nationwide passion, nothing rivals football. As the birthplace of World Cup champions and home to world-renowned local leagues (like the Argentine Primera División), football commands massive attention.

One standout event is the “Superclásico”—the legendary match between Boca Juniors and River Plate. It’s more than just a football game; it's a national event that generates peak betting traffic. It also provides the best opportunity for iGaming platforms to advertise, sponsor, and grow their user base.

A Fragmented Market with Concentrated Potential

Argentina’s iGaming regulatory system may seem complicated (after all, it’s “one province, one law”), but the country is not a beginner’s market. Instead, it resembles an undervalued market awaiting entry from professional players. Whoever can build solid bridges between provincial policy, local payment systems, and cultural integration will be able to enjoy a piece of this “messy but juicy” pie.

Here’s why Argentina’s gambling market stands out:

1. The entry barrier is high, leading to relatively healthy competition.
2. Legitimate channels are clearly defined, with increasing government support.
3. Local players are mature, with strong cultural recognition of gambling.
4. Advertising has dual advantages: provincial licenses and football club sponsorships.

Argentina is Preparing for a Nationwide Gambling Ad Ban

In November 2024, Argentina’s Chamber of Deputies passed a bill (139 votes in favor) proposing a nationwide ban on all iGaming advertisements, sponsorships, and promotions. Article 8 of the draft law clearly outlines the scope of the ban, covering:

However, Article 9 allows limited promotions within casinos and lottery outlets—provided they include clear warnings like “Gambling addiction harms families.” This bill has been submitted to the Senate for review. Though not yet enacted, it is a strong signal of tightening ad regulations that iGaming operators should closely monitor and plan around.

Argentina’s Legal Structure for Gambling

For newcomers exploring the Argentine gambling market, the first impression is often: “Why is everything so fragmented? Who's actually in charge? Is this stable?” The key word here is “decentralization.” This isn’t just a casual observation—it’s built into Argentina’s constitutional framework. Argentina doesn’t have a centralized gambling authority. Instead, each province legislates, licenses, and regulates its own market. You can think of each province as a “mini country” with its own laws and gambling board.

Why is It Provincial? Because the Law Says So

Argentina is a classic federal republic, similar in structure to the United States. Its constitution gives each province strong autonomy, especially in areas like culture, entertainment, and finance. Since gambling touches both finance and culture, it naturally falls under provincial jurisdiction.

This leads to a legal landscape of “one country, many laws”—Argentina has 24 legal jurisdictions (23 provinces + the City of Buenos Aires). Each creates its own rules, grants its own licenses, and handles its own enforcement.

This freedom can easily create confusion: One license does NOT give you nationwide access.

Some iGaming operators mistakenly think: “I have a license from Buenos Aires, so I can legally operate across Argentina, right?” Absolutely not. Every province only recognizes its own license.

Want to go nationwide? You’ll need to negotiate province by province, and apply for separate licenses one by one. That’s why Argentina may appear open on the surface, but very few platforms actually scale. It’s a high-barrier, high-moat iGaming market.

Are There National Laws? Yes, But Limited

At the national level, Argentina does have some policies related to gambling—but these mostly govern the periphery, while provinces handle the core.

Here’s what the national government oversees:

• Taxation: including VAT, corporate income tax, and a special iGaming industry tax (RCOSA).
• Foreign investment regulation: foreign iGaming investors in some provinces must form joint ventures with local firms, with limits on equity share.
• Payment and currency control: heavily regulated until 2025, but easing with recent foreign exchange reforms.
• Technical standards: while the national government recommends using certifications like GLI or BMM, final adoption is up to each province.

Overview of iGaming Regulatory Framework by Province in Argentina

Argentina's iGaming Tax Structure

In Argentina, iGaming taxation follows a three-tiered system: national taxes, provincial taxes, and industry-specific levies (RCOSA). Each tier can significantly impact your profit model and operational strategy.

National-Level Taxes

Any iGaming operator—local or international—targeting Argentine users or using Argentine payment systems is subject to national taxation.

Key National Taxes:

1. Value-Added Tax (VAT): Fixed rate of 21%
2. Corporate Income Tax: Tiered based on annual profit; ranges between 25% to 35%. Most iGaming operators fall under the highest bracket (35%) due to high profitability.
3. Dividend Withholding Tax: If profits are distributed to a foreign parent company, a 7% withholding tax on dividends applies.

Additionally, Argentina adopts a worldwide taxation policy, meaning you must declare global earnings (although foreign tax credits can be applied when applicable).

Local Taxation: Each Province Has Its Own GGR Tax Rules

In Argentina, each province not only grants licenses but also imposes local taxes on licensed iGaming platforms—mainly a GGR (Gross Gambling Revenue) tax.

1. In Córdoba Province, the GGR tax is 10%.
2. In other provinces, this rate can range between 5% and 12%, depending on local iGaming regulations.

Note: The GGR tax is added on top of national taxes. That means you are not only required to pay federal income taxes but must also pay provincial GGR taxes. In some cities, there may even be additional fees like “supervisory charges” or lottery regulation fees.

Special Industry Tax: RCOSA

Argentina also has an exclusive indirect tax for iGaming, established by Decree No. 293/2022. This applies to all iGaming operators—local or foreign.

This tax is managed under the RCOSA registration system, with rates ranging from 2.5% to 15%, based on a company’s registration status, investment scale, and employment numbers.

Local Companies

Foreign Companies

Summary: The “Three Layers” of Argentina’s iGaming Tax System

Most Popular Payment Methods for iGaming in Argentina

In Argentina, Visa or MasterCard are not the dominant iGaming payment methods. Instead, local, user-friendly, culturally adapted tools take the lead:

• Rapipago: An offline cash payment system. Players scan a code and pay at local stores or supermarkets. Funds are then credited online.
• Pago Fácil: Similar to Rapipago—another widespread offline cash payment service found in retail outlets.
• Bank Cards: Includes local debit and prepaid cards, especially those connected to bank accounts via CBU (Unique Bank Code) transfers.

International prepaid solutions like Paysafecard, Neteller, Skrill, and Ukash are also in use, mainly among mid- to high-tier players for online top-ups.

Settling in Argentine Pesos = Less Friction

Using ARS (Argentine Peso) for payments reduces friction significantly:

1. Players avoid exchange rate losses
2. Platforms avoid conversion fees eating into profits
3. Real-time deposits and withdrawals are easier via local payment gateways

Why it matters: Local operators naturally offer smoother payment experiences. For foreign platforms, integrating peso-based gateways is strongly recommended to improve retention. Without it, drop-off rates can become a serious concern.

Major 2025 Shift: Decree No. 269/2025 Unlocks New Payment Landscape

Argentina previously had strict capital controls, which led to: Transfer difficulties Heavy foreign exchange restrictions Profit repatriation challenges But that changed in April 2025. Thanks to Decree No. 269/2025 and Central Bank Resolution A-8226, the government officially relaxed FX policies. Key effects:

1. The gap between official and black-market exchange rates significantly narrowed
2. Fund movement became more stable and predictable
3. Cross-border settlements (especially from local gateways to foreign PSPs) became more feasible

Crypto: A Growing Player Acquisition Channel

Due to Argentina’s long-term currency depreciation, it’s now one of Latin America’s most crypto-enthusiastic countries.

Players frequently use Bitcoin, USDT, and ETH to fund accounts. Many treat crypto wallets as digital savings accounts.

What Compliance and Certification Are Needed to Enter the iGaming Market in Argentina?

Launching a legal iGaming platform in Argentina requires more than just a license. You also need full compliance in technology, security, data, and payments.

Certification: Your Entry Pass to the Market

In Argentina, most provinces require iGaming platforms and games to pass testing and certification from independent third-party labs before launch. These are the most widely accepted:

1. GLI (Gaming Laboratories International): The most globally recognized lab; accepted in most provinces.
2. BMM Testlabs: Especially recognized by Buenos Aires city regulator LOTBA.
3. eCOGRA: Accepted in provinces like Mendoza, typically for specific or supplementary certifications.

Two Must-Have Compliance Tools: KYC & AML

To operate legally, your iGaming platform must integrate robust tools for identity verification and anti-money laundering.

KYC (Know Your Customer)

1. Must support Argentine national ID (DNI) verification
2. Should block minors, fake names, and duplicate accounts
3. Ideal setup: AI face-matching + auto-upload document system

AML (Anti-Money Laundering)

1. Must monitor large deposits, irregular bets, frequent withdrawals
2. Should link to platform’s risk control system for auto-triggers
3. Must comply with FATF standards for international reporting

⚠ In some provinces, audit logs and KYC/AML reports must be submitted to regulators regularly.

Platform Setup Requirements

To succeed in Argentina’s iGaming space, your platform must come pre-equipped with localized features.

Data Access & Server Hosting Requirements

In provinces such as Buenos Aires (LOTBA) and Misiones (IPLyC), platforms must host local mirror servers to enable real-time access to: Player activity Betting records KYC logs These platforms must also provide real-time API access to regulators for continuous monitoring.

Snapshot of Argentine Players

Argentine players have a high acceptance of gambling, strong cultural connection to the practice, and a mature user base that expects a seamless platform experience.

1. Strong interest in horse racing and football betting, especially high-profile matches like Superclásico
2. Preference for familiar and secure payment methods, e.g., Rapipago, Pago Fácil, cryptocurrency
3. Dislike for complicated processes – prefer self-service deposits/withdrawals over manual customer support
4. Favor Spanish interfaces with localized cultural context
5. Highly sensitive to compliance certifications and platform trust signals

Summary

Argentina is one of Latin America's most promising iGaming markets — rich in gambling culture and poised for structured digital growth. From legacy casinos to nationwide football passion, from fragmented regulations to gradual compliance unification, Argentina is entering a high-barrier, high-potential phase.

But succeeding here is not easy:

1. Fragmented regulation: No national gambling law – each province issues its own license and rules
2. Complicated taxation: Includes national, local, and industry-specific taxes
3. High localization demand: From language to payment methods and brand trust
4. Strict ad policies: Advertising is limited to licensed provinces only
5. Entry requirements: Some provinces require joint ventures, local company registration, or server deployment

Yet this structure offers a strategic moat for serious operators. And since 2025, many signs show growing opportunities:

1. More provinces are pushing for iGaming legislation
2. Payment and foreign exchange controls are loosening
3. Tax policies are becoming more transparent, with clearer compliance pathways

Why TC-Gaming White Label? With over 17 years of iGaming experience, TC-Gaming White Label has a deep understanding of regional compliance and a proven track record in Latin American markets. We’re not just a platform provider—we’re your strategic partner.

Our motto: “We don’t just build your platform — we help you run it successfully.” Let TC-Gaming be your bridge to long-term success in Argentina and across the LATAM iGaming landscape.