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The government of Rio Grande do Norte (RN) is proceeding with plans for the launch of its state lottery system, dubbed Loto Potiguar. Even though the exact date for betting activities is yet to be confirmed, the State Secretariat of Finance (Sefaz) has confirmed that the project is still on course.
The project is in its final stages, and the government is in the process of accrediting operators and testing the technical aspects of the project. This is pending the outcome of the testing and validation by authorized laboratories.
Operational Structure and Market Entry
According to Sefaz, the project is set for a successful launch in the first half of 2026. At this stage, several lottery games will be operational, starting with forecast and instant games.
“The State’s planning foresees that, by mid-2026, lottery modalities such as forecast and instant games will be in operation, followed by the structuring of passive modalities, in accordance with the strategic guidelines defined for the sector”, the agency stated.
At this stage, two specialized laboratories and six payment institutions have already been accredited. However, the government is in the process of evaluating operators. Unfortunately, the names of the operators are yet to be confirmed.
Regarding the fixed-odds betting segment, Sefaz has confirmed significant progress. “The first modality already structured is fixed-odds betting (‘bets’), whose accreditation is in progress, with important stages already completed, allowing for a safe path towards the start of operations.”
Legal Framework and Governance Model
The lottery system was legally authorized by Law No. 12,217 of June 24, 2025. The law allows the lottery system to have both physical and digital operations. Sefaz will directly administer the system. It includes the administration of the State Lottery Fund. It is designed to centralize revenues and unclaimed lottery prizes.
The state is using an indirect system of operation. It allows private companies to operate the lottery system. It is under a regulated system. However, the government is providing strict oversight of the system.
Additional regulations are provided by Decree No. 34,840 of August 2025. It provides the operational regulations, financial requirements, and the regulations of the lottery system. It includes responsible gaming requirements, self-exclusion mechanisms, and anti-money laundering regulations.
Revenue Expectations and Investment
The state government is expecting to generate revenue of approximately R$25 million in 2026. It is based on the progressive implementation of the lottery system. It is expected to be rolled out throughout the year.
“This revenue projection considers the progressive implementation of lottery modalities and reflects the Government’s commitment to generating public revenue in a responsible, transparent, and sustainable manner”, Sefaz noted.
To ensure the success of the lottery system, the law allows an investment of up to R$3 million. It is to establish the lottery system.
As the Rio Grande do Norte lottery system is being rolled out, the Loto Potiguar is an additional step toward the expansion of the lottery system. It is an integral part of the regulated lottery system. It is being rolled out across Brazil.
Source: iGaming Brasil
