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Codere Uruguay has further emphasized its commitment to responsible gaming through the central focus it places on the prevention of problem gaming as an integral part of its operational strategy. The company currently operates five slot halls owned by the state, as well as Casino Carrasco, thus becoming an important contributor to the gaming industry in Uruguay.
Fernando Pérez Tabó, the Director of Institutional Relations at Codere Uruguay, has explained the company’s daily activities in identifying behaviors that may develop into problem gaming situations while at the same time providing the necessary support mechanisms before the situation becomes too complicated. According to Fernando Pérez Tabó, the focus on the prevention of problem gaming is not peripheral but rather central to the company’s operations.
The company encourages awareness through the distribution of information materials, with special emphasis placed on the self-assessment test that helps players assess their gaming relations. As Fernando Pérez Tabó explained in an interview with La Búsqueda magazine, “It is essential to talk about and make the issue visible; we cannot hide it or treat it as a taboo, as unfortunately often happens.”
Staff Training and Professional Support Networks
Training is an important aspect of the company’s approach to the prevention of problem gaming. Fernando Pérez Tabó emphasized the training sessions that the company undertakes with Argentine psychologist Débora Blanca. According to the director, the training sessions are meant to ensure that the company’s staff is equipped with the necessary skills to deal with individuals with problem gaming situations.
The company has also had an agreement with the Uruguayan Network of Psychologists for the past three years to offer professional assistance to Casino Carrasco’s clients under preferential conditions.
Self-Exclusion and Early Intervention
Another important measure is the self-exclusion option, which Pérez Tabó described as follows: “This is a measure whereby a person, in the company of a witness, can ask to be included in a registry of people who cannot be admitted to the casino. It is a good way to support someone who knows he has a problem, or whose family knows he has a problem, and asks for help. Through this mechanism, that impulse which a person might have is stopped.”
When asked about signs of problems, Pérez Tabó drew a clear line between gaming for recreation and gaming problems. “When a person starts betting more than he can afford, and gambling starts affecting his life, then we are talking about a different situation, which we must necessarily address“, he pointed out. He also emphasized the significance of early intervention: “Early intervention is fundamental because this means stopping something in time, which can be very harmful. When we talk about intervening in time, we are talking about problem gambling, and this means there is still time to avoid a greater impact.”
Regional Context and Regulatory Challenges
These measures are also set against the backdrop of regulatory debates in Latin America. “In 2025, the Uruguayan Chamber of Casino Operators and Service Lessors was created, which brought together key players in the sector who prioritize responsible gaming practices.”
Meanwhile, during the SBC Digital Day – LATAM webinar “Mexico Modernizes Gaming: What Lies Ahead for the 2026 World Cup and Beyond?”, Codere CEO Aviv Sher spoke about the effects of Mexico’s recent 50% tax hike on gaming operators. He stated that the tax hike would disproportionately affect smaller operators and would favor the illegal market since it would not be subject to the same tax regime.
However, despite these challenges, Codere is preparing to capitalize on the visibility that the 2026 World Cup will bring, including the activities that the company will carry out at the Rayados stadium, one of its sponsorship properties. However, Sher acknowledged that the rise in media costs is limiting promotional opportunities in the current environment.
Source: SBC Noticias
