Sweden looking to take ‘the next step to regain control’ of gaming market

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The Swedish government has proposed further regulatory reforms for the country’s online gambling market, which are slated to enter force in 2023.

Ardalan Shekarabi, minister of social insurance, has outlined this latest wave of proposals, which have been done with an ambition of ensuring strong consumer protection and a long-term sustainable gaming market.

Among other things, the motions intend to put an end to “aggressive gambling advertising on the most dangerous games,” as well as exclude illegal players from the region’s digital marketplace.

“We are now taking the next step to regain control of the Swedish gaming market,” Shekarabi commented. “It is both about limiting aggressive gaming advertising and stopping gaming companies that do not have a license. Strengthened gambling regulation is a prerequisite for strong protection for consumers.”

The proposals, which are set to be submitted to the law council, include a ban on the promotion of illegal gambling as well as an extended ban on the promotion of unlicensed gambling in a bid to prevent illegal activities.

Furthermore, a requirement for a gaming software licence to gain control over software development and exclude unlicensed gaming is also included, in addition to an obligation for licensees to participate in increasing development opportunities.

Furthermore, an adjusted requirement for moderation in the marketing of games, to protect children, young people and those with gambling problems, is also included.

Most of the amendments outlined by Shekarabi are proposed to enter into force on January 1, 2023.

Earlier this month, the Spelinspektionen stated that it held “no objections” on the reintroduction of temporary gaming liability measures in Sweden in light of an increased spread of COVID-19.

The Swedish Gaming Authority noted that due to the current rapid spread, which saw the country introduce stricter infection control measures, means that the circumstances which brought an initial introduction “is now again considered to exist”.