Sweden wants to take the “next step to regain control” over the gaming market
The Swedish government has proposed further regulatory reforms for the country’s online gaming market, which is expected to enter into force in 2023.
Ardalan Shekarabi, Minister of Social Insurance, has outlined this latest wave of proposals, which have been made with an ambition to ensure strong consumer protection and a long-term sustainable gaming market.
The motions are intended, among other things, to put an end to “aggressive gambling advertising on the most dangerous games”, and to exclude illegal players from the region’s digital marketplace.
“We are now taking the next step to regain control of the Swedish gaming market,” commented Shekarabi. “It is both about limiting aggressive gambling 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 to be submitted to the Law Council, include a ban on the promotion of illegal gambling and an extended ban on the promotion of illegal gambling in an attempt to prevent illegal activities.
It also includes a requirement for a gaming software license to gain control over software development and exclude unlicensed gaming, in addition to an obligation for licensees to participate in increasing development opportunities.
Furthermore, an adapted requirement for moderation is also included in the marketing of games, in order to protect children, young people and those with gambling problems.
Most of the changes outlined by Shekarabi are proposed to take effect on January 1, 2023.
The Swedish Gaming Inspectorate stated earlier this month that it has no objections to the reintroduction of temporary gaming liability measures in Sweden in light of an increased spread of covid-19.
The Swedish The Gaming Authority noted that due to the current rapid spread, which led the country to introduce stricter infection control measures, this means that the circumstances that led to an initial introduction “are now considered to exist again”.