The head of AGEM Mexico says a percentage of the nation’s casinos are using slots with unlicensed software. Carlos Carrion, president of the Association of Manufacturers and Providers of Electronic Games of Chance Equipment estimates that 15 percent of the country’s 90,000 machines are of questionable vintage, were bought second-hand, or have inappropriate software.
“This is unfair competition that may lead to piracy,” he said.
According to Yogonet.com, Mexico has no certification standard to control the importation of “apocryphal” equipment. Unlike new machines, second-hand equipment may be acquired at 50 percent less than new machines, which cost about US $16,000.
According to data provided by AGEM Mexico, electronic machines generate around $1.6 billion per year. Manufacturers get around 20 percent of that revenue for a total of about $328 million per year.
Subpar machines are at risk of making system errors concerning player credits, awards and prizes, warned Carrión.
The Mexican government may ratify a new federal law that would empower the National Games and Draws Institute to regulate casino equipment.
