The Ministry of the Interior in Finland has proposed a draft bill to de-regulate the gambling sector, aiming to partially dissolve the monopoly held by Veikkaus. The bill would open up betting and online casino games to competition under a licensing system outlined in the government programme. However, Veikkaus would still maintain its monopoly on games such as lottery and scratch cards.
The licensing system is focused on reducing gambling-related harm and directing demand to the regulated market. Licences for different types of gambling could be acquired from a supervisory authority under the Ministry of Finance. The bill also addresses age limits, registration of gamblers, and restrictions on marketing and sponsorship of gambling.
Despite concerns over gambling harm, there is a divide between officials and politicians regarding stricter regulations on marketing. The bill also includes measures like network barring and payment blocking to control unlicensed gambling activities. The Ministry aims to submit the bill to parliament next year, with the new system expected to be fully implemented by 2027.
Overall, the proposed changes are designed to modernize and regulate the gambling sector in Finland while addressing potential risks associated with it.