For better or worse, many European countries have headed for untapping their gambling markets or implementing particular amendments with the aim of dealing with the issues gambling activities cause.
On one hand, the free access to gambling activities would definitely be beneficial to the economy but on the other hand, they are believed to pose a real danger to the residents and especially to the underaged part of the population.
As a matter of fact, most countries that are to implement new rules and regulations keep a close eye on the gambling affairs of the countries that have already expanded their gambling market and turned the casino games into a source of decent annual revenue. Speaking of countries that can serve as an example, Malta is often considered the gambling Mecca of Europe.
The authorities of the following countries have indicated that they are likely to implement changes and slowly but surely establish strict rules that would protect both players and operators.
The Netherlands
Those who keep themselves informed about the gambling legislation in the Netherlands know that the local officials have been working towards making the gambling activities legal in 2015. However, a few days ago, it became clear that the legislation is to be postponed and any imminent actions towards the legislation are to be taken as early as the middle of 2016.
Sweden
It seems like Svenska Spel, the monopolist on the Swedish gambling market, will not face any competitors in the foreseeable future. Actually, Svenska Spel was accused of violating the regulations of the European Commission but it became clear that the Swedish government is not likely to impose any new laws before the end of their current mandate.
Spain
Spain is by all means among the countries that put emphasis on the responsible gambling. It was recently announced that certain restrictions on gambling-related advertisements will be imposed. As for the expansion of the gambling sector, authorities are expected to take actions within the next few months and focus primarily on online slot machines and casino games.
Italy
The Italian gambling sector and the poker games in particular remain problematic but this does not mean that regulators have abandoned their plans for imposing stricter measures and reducing the impact gambling advertisements have on the residents. What is more, key political figures put forward the idea for a full ban on gambling advertisements. As for the gambling activities themselves, a decrease have been reported over the last couple of months but gambling operators are convinced that things will change really soon.
The United Kingdom
It is a well-known fact that the implementation of the Point of Consumption tax caused a lot of troubles to the UK-based gambling providers. And the worst of all is that they have to be prepared for adapting to new requirements as the tax in question is to be reviewed sometime this year. In addition, UK gambling regulators are believed to follow the example of the above-mentioned countries and make the responsible gaming their top priority.
Romania
The problem gambling turned out to be a serious problem to Romania and two weeks ago a bill proposing the slot machines to be available in casinos only was introduced. As far as the online gambling is concerned, it is still uncertain if any changes will be implemented but the online gambling legislation will definitely help the economy to be stabilized. There is one setback, though. Romanian gambling officials need to make the taxes more reasonable. Otherwise, the foreign gambling operators who would be willing to operate on the Romanian market will not be that many.
The Czech Republic
Back in December 2014, the Czech Republic officials suggested the taxes to be significantly increased and expectedly, their proposal attracted a lot of opponents. It is still unclear if the increased taxes will apply to live or online games, or both. In addition, the Finance Minister of the Czech Republic commented that the existing regulations need to be reviewed and the outdated ones to become compatible with the fast changing gambling environment.
Portugal
Mere days ago, it was announced that the online gambling legislation of Portugal was reviewed and now, it is compatible with the European requirements. It is predominantly focused on the protection of players and their funds as well as the security, which is essential for having excellent online gambling experience.
The changes do affect players’ winnings and they will not be supposed to pay taxes but the situation with the operators is a bit different. The levy will be determined by the generated gross gaming revenue. They will also be eligible for accepting payments from any bank institution on the territory of the European Union.
Every operator that would like to provide products and services on the territory of Portugal is free to apply and pay the amount of €500,000 in order to complete the application process.
