In a statement that has sent ripples through the South American gaming industry, Governor Alfredo Cornejo of Mendoza has declared that “live gaming is decreasing” as virtual platforms take center stage.
Cornejo argued that the rapid adoption of mobile betting applications represents a fundamental shift in player behavior that necessitates a total regulatory overhaul.
Employment Concerns in the Digital Age
The Governor warned that the decline of physical casino visits poses a significant threat to local employment. Unlike traditional brick-and-mortar venues, virtual casinos minimize human interaction, potentially rendering many service roles obsolete.
“Employees of the casinos should know that there is a transformation process. More and more people play using mobile applications instead of going to casinos,” Cornejo noted.
In response, the government is coordinating with the Ministry of Finance and IPJyC of Mendoza to develop new initiatives tailored to this digital-first reality.
Industry Pushback: “Stable, Not Dramatic”
Industry representatives have challenged the Governor’s of Mendoza bleak assessment of land-based gaming. Diego Luconi, Secretary General of UPJCM, characterized physical gaming as “stable” rather than in decline.
“The decrease in live gaming did not happen. Of course, there is growth of virtual gaming, but it cannot be called dramatic,” Luconi stated.
He further criticized the administration’s history of closing gaming halls, such as the Central Casino annexes, arguing that any decline in physical gaming is a result of policy decisions rather than organic player shifts.
