The President of Loterj (Rio de Janeiro State Lottery) is invited to a UN Tourism event and highlights the impact of light rail transit (VLT) on the economy and tourism of Rio.
The president of Loterj, Hazenclever Lopes Cançado, was invited to participate in the Tourism and Investment Forum | Brazil 360°, promoted by UN Tourism, which takes place this Tuesday (16) in São Paulo. The meeting brings together authorities, businesspeople and experts from different countries, also counting on the presence of the Secretary-General of UN Tourism, Zurab Pololikashvili, and Hazenclever participated in the reception dinner held on Monday night in honor of the United Nations representative. The program focuses on innovation, regional integration and financing mechanisms, reinforcing tourism as an essential vector of Brazil's economic and social development.
During the event, the president of Loterj met with the representative of the UN Tourism Americas Regional Office, Heitor Kadri, with the Special Advisor of the World Tourism Organization, Daniel Nepomuceno, and with the federal deputy and former Minister of Tourism, Marcelo Álvaro Antônio, president of the Tourism Committee of the Chamber of Deputies.
The holding of this international debate coincides with a strategic moment for Rio de Janeiro. Recently, Loterj (Rio de Janeiro State Lottery) pioneered the regulation of the Video Lottery (VLT) market, an initiative that opens a new front to boost tourism and revitalize the economy of Rio de Janeiro state. For Hazenclever, the VLTs represent more than just technology: they offer an integrated experience of entertainment, gastronomy, and innovation, capable of enriching the visitor experience and consolidating Rio's role as a leading tourist destination.
Among the first initiatives planned are investments in the Sport Bar concept – spaces that combine themed bars, live broadcasts of sporting events, and cutting-edge betting technology. These environments are designed to extend the length of tourists' stay, stimulate local consumption, and create modern experiences that align with international trends.
Another innovative aspect is the payment method. The VLT (Light Rail Vehicle) operation will function exclusively via PIX, a model pioneered by Loterj when it regulated fixed-odds betting, without the use of cash or cards. This decision seeks to guarantee greater security, transparency, and traceability of transactions, reducing the risk of fraud and strengthening regulatory control of the sector.
While the economic impact is significant, Loterj's social commitment remains a priority. Currently, the majority of the funds raised are allocated to social projects that benefit thousands of families in vulnerable communities. Investments cover areas such as education, health, culture, sports, and social assistance, reinforcing inclusion and citizenship.
“Loterj transforms resources into life and opportunity. Every cent invested returns in programs that strengthen citizenship, educate young people, support families, and build a fairer, more humane Rio with opportunities for all. All of this is done with secure and sustainable regulations, guaranteeing transparency, accountability, and a positive impact on society,” says Hazenclever.
This leading role reflects the new moment for tourism in Rio de Janeiro. According to recent data from the state government, the sector already represents about 4% of the state's GDP and registered a 28% growth in the flow of international visitors in 2024. The combination of regulatory innovation, social strengthening, and the promotion of tourism projects the state as an example of integrated development for Brazil and the world.
