The event held on November 26 and 27 at the Cancún Center marked the official launch of Gaming & Technology Expo, GAT Expo in Mexico, a trade show to be held in partnership with AIEJA on August 20-21 in Mexico City.
The event held on November 26 and 27 at the Cancún Center marked the official launch of Gaming & Technology Expo, GAT Expo in Mexico, a trade show to be held in partnership with AIEJA on August 20-21 in Mexico City.
With the participation of over 290 business leaders, government representatives, and international associations, GAT Caribe Cancún became a key opportunity for analysis, collaboration, and visibility for the gaming industry in a country poised to lead the future of entertainment in the region. This event planted the foundation for GAT Expo México.
Academic Opening with a Vision for the Future
Antonio Benítez, Director of Economic Development for Quintana Roo, presided over the event’s inauguration, stating: “GAT Caribe Cancún not only boosts regional economic growth but also positions Mexico as a key global player in the gaming industry.”
Keynote Address: Regulatory Landscape in Mexico
Dr. Miguel Ángel Ochoa, president of AIEJA (the Association of Licensees, Operators, and Suppliers of the Entertainment and Gambling Industry), opened the academic agenda with a keynote on the current regulatory status of the gaming sector in Mexico. Ochoa emphasized the need for a unified law to regulate all gaming verticals, highlighting: “The new government has shown an initial intention to engage in dialogue with licensees next year. To begin, the Ministry of the Interior has requested that we submit a jointly signed letter as the first step in analyzing this possibility.”
Coinciding with AIEJA’s announcement, news spread that the Executive Branch is expected to send a new bill to Congress in the coming weeks to reform the Gaming and Sweepstakes Law, which has remained unchanged since 1947.
Importing Gaming Machines in Mexico is Allowed
Addressing the current status of machine imports in Mexico, Rodrigo Galván reviewed existing regulations and the impact of legal actions taken by licensees. He confirmed that importing machines is permitted as long as all guidelines and processes established by the Ministry of the Interior’s Gaming Division are followed, as outlined in an August 2024 directive.
Participation of Industry Leaders and International Associations
Entrepreneurs from land-based and online sectors, along with 30 speakers, attended conferences and panels addressing topics like regulation, artificial intelligence in gaming, and growth strategies. International participants included Fernando Calderón from Peru’s SONAJA and Yamile Gutiérrez from the National Sports Betting Association of the Dominican Republic, who brought global perspectives to the discussions.
Key companies present at GAT Caribe Cancún included Blumon Pay, Touch Dynamic, Wamaberry, Global Transfer, Betandeal, Palacio de los Números, Kushki, Chatbet, Clearsky Network, WA Technology, OKTO Payments, Bitso, Apuesta Total, Campo Bet, Sportradar, Novomatic México, and Prometeo IT.
Alejandra Gómez of Betsone, also Vice President of COMUJ, affiliated with AIEJA, discussed the evolving role of women in the gaming industry.
Pragmatic Play, represented by Victor Arias, VP of Operations for Arrise Powering Pragmatic Play, led a groundbreaking panel on B2B marketing for in-person events and the contributions of specialized media in Latin America’s gaming industry. Joining the panel were Pablo Zuppi from Yogonet, Ricky Chávez from Casino International Americano, Juan Manuel Rodríguez from SBC, and José Aníbal Aguirre from GAT.
Creation of the Confederation of Gaming Industry Associations
A panel featuring Latin American associations explored regulatory developments and investment opportunities in countries such as Mexico, Peru, and the Dominican Republic. The discussions led to a pivotal agreement: the creation of the Confederation of Latin American Gaming Industry Associations, set to be formalized during GAT Expo Cartagena from April 28-30, 2025.
Led by Dr. Fernando Calderón from SONAJA, the confederation will strengthen the role of industry associations as regulatory consultants while promoting responsible gaming, anti-money laundering measures, and improving public perceptions of the gaming industry.
AI, Virtual Games, and Betting
Dr. Pedro Gallego of Mobadoo captivated the audience with insights on risk management in casino operations, leading to numerous consulting requests.
José Aníbal Aguirre’s presentation on the transformation of traditional pre-recorded virtual betting into real-time AI-driven matches every minute showcased disruptive technological innovation.
Exhibits and Announcement of GAT Expo México 2025
The second day focused on product and service exhibits in the Gran Cancún Hall, spanning 1,800 square meters with 30 leading brands showcasing their latest technological innovations.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by industry leaders, served as the stage for José Aníbal Aguirre to announce an agreement with AIEJA to host a second GAT Events edition in Mexico on August 20-21, 2025, in Mexico City.
Networking Opportunities
Welcome cocktails at the Cancún Center and a closing beach party provided an ideal environment for networking and strengthening the gaming ecosystem in Mexico and Latin America.
José Aníbal Aguirre summed up the event: “GAT Caribe Cancún 2024 launched GAT Expo México, a project already attracting major brands. Companies like Ainsworth, Novomatic, Merkur, Interblock, and Pragmatic Play have confirmed their participation. Most importantly, our partnership with AIEJA, its members, and the leadership of Dr. Miguel Ángel Ochoa has been instrumental in this achievement.”
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