In an effort to break up the nation’s online gambling monopoly, the Finnish government has presented a new gambling reform bill to parliament. The law would bring Finland into line with other Nordic countries like Sweden and Denmark by opening the market to private operators if it is passed.
At the moment, Veikkaus is the exclusive owner of all internet gambling in Finland, including casino games, sports betting, and lotteries. The proposed bill would put an end to this monopoly by the end of 2026. Nonetheless, Veikkaus would continue to have authority over land-based casinos, retail gaming machines, scratch cards, and lotteries.
Industry trade body Rahapeliala Ry has advocated for the reform, expecting lawmakers to approve the bill by mid-2025. This timeline could accelerate the implementation process, allowing operators to apply for licenses from January 2026. The new competitive market may then launch in early 2027, though some stakeholders remain optimistic for an earlier start.
Focus on Reducing Gambling Harm
The Finnish government believes the regulatory overhaul will mitigate gambling-related harm. By licensing more operators, the reform aims to direct players toward regulated platforms, reducing the use of unlicensed, potentially unsafe gambling sites.
“The aim of the bill has been to find a regulatory solution in which the regulation combating gambling harms would be balanced with the fact that gambling companies want to apply for a license and that online gambling would be directed to a regulated gaming offering,” said Mari Rantanen, Finland’s Minister of the Interior.
With increased competition, licensed operators would need to implement strict player protection measures, ensuring safer gambling experiences. The government hopes these changes will provide greater transparency and accountability in the sector.
The bill will undergo further reviews by parliamentary subcommittees, which may introduce minor amendments. Despite this, experts predict a swift legislative process.
Mika Kuismanen, CEO of Rahapeliala Ry, expects the law to pass by June 2025. On the other hand, gaming lawyer Antti Koivula suggests a more conservative timeline, with a parliamentary vote likely in the autumn of 2025.
“Minor modifications are expected before the parliament votes on its approval, likely in autumn 2025,” Koivula stated on LinkedIn. “With broad political consensus on the need for reform, the vote is expected to be a formality.”
The reform marks a significant shift in Finland’s gambling landscape, opening opportunities for international operators and aligning the country’s regulations with broader European market practices.
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