The Swedish government has formally given Spelinspektionen, the agency in charge of gaming regulation, new authority to monitor and manage licensees. This new step tightens the nation’s efforts against gambling-related issues by enabling Spelinspektionen to intervene directly in cases where online gambling practices are deemed excessive.
Stronger Consumer Protection
This move is a significant step toward bolstering consumer protection in Sweden. The government stated, “This decision represents a tightening of efforts against gambling problems and strengthens consumer protection.” By giving Spelinspektionen the ability to modify licensees’ action plans, the regulator can now ensure that these plans align with strict duty of care requirements, which are essential for safeguarding consumers from the risks associated with excessive gambling and illegal gambling operators.
Beginning October 1, Spelinspektionen will have the authority to adjust the action plans of individual licensees to better meet these care obligations. This enhancement is expected to lead to more consistent and thorough guidelines across the industry, helping to address disparities in how operators approach responsible gambling.
Focus on Responsible Gambling
Under the current Gambling Act, Swedish online gambling operators must have an action plan that outlines their duty of care procedures, protocols, and routines. However, Spelinspektionen’s oversight revealed significant inconsistencies in these plans, leading the regulator to seek greater control. The regulator emphasized that “all license holders should clearly describe in their action plans their guidelines for gambling responsibility and how these are to be implemented.”
Niklas Wykman, Sweden’s Minister of Financial Markets, expressed strong support for the expanded powers granted to Spelinspektionen. He stated, “There must be order in the gaming market. The new requirement should lead to more detailed action plans, making it clear how gambling companies take responsibility for counteracting gambling-related risks.” Wykman also noted that this move would enhance Spelinspektionen’s ability to prevent individuals from suffering the negative effects of gambling.
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