Spain's Lottery Sellers Call for Bigger Christmas Jackpot
Spain faces mounting living costs that have driven up housing and energy prices, reducing disposable incomes and dampening hopes of sudden fortune through the annual Christmas lottery. Many Spaniards start buying their holiday tickets as early as spring, often spending considerable sums.
The head of Spain's main lottery sellers' association has urged the government to raise both ticket prices and the jackpot for the country's famous Christmas draw, known as “El Gordo” or “The Fat One.”
“The jackpot hasn't changed in 14 years, while prices have climbed about 26%. Before, you could buy two apartments with it. Now it barely covers one,” said Borja Muniz, President of ANAPAL, which represents 4,100 lottery shops across Spain.
Proposed Adjustments
- Increase the price of a tenth-share ticket (“decimo”) from 20 to 25 euros.
- Raise the top prize from 400,000 to 500,000 euros per winning decimo.
- Boost sales commissions for retailers from 4.5% to 6% to offset rising costs.
ANAPAL has formally submitted the proposal to the state-run lottery agency and Spain’s Budget Ministry. The agency organizing the Christmas draw declined to comment on the matter.
The 2025 edition of Spain’s Christmas Lottery, scheduled for December 22, is expected to introduce notable changes to this long-standing national tradition.
Author’s Summary
Inflation is pressuring Spain’s lottery sellers, who seek higher ticket prices, a bigger jackpot, and better commissions to preserve the Christmas draw’s appeal and viability.