The Swedish gambling regulator, Spelinspektionen, is set to receive additional funding of SEK 2.4 million (EUR 210,000) in 2023, as well as augmented enforcement capabilities. These proposals will be submitted to the Riksdag during the spring amendment budget.
Enhancing Market Safety and Combating Organised Crime
The submission, a collaboration between the Swedish government and the Sweden Democrats, aims to better cultivate a secure online gaming market and intensify the fight against organised crime. The government asserts that the regulator requires more resources to address the substantial influx of permit applications and carry out vital supervisory tasks.
Tackling Emerging Risks in the Gaming Market
The rapidly changing gaming market brings about significant risks, such as match-fixing and money laundering, highlighting the need for increased funding. “Active supervision of the gaming market is needed to combat criminal activity and protect vulnerable groups,” stated Angelika Bengtsson, the Sweden Democrats’ sports policy spokesperson.
Blocking Unlicensed Gambling Operators
In addition to the funding, the government has proposed legislation to the Riksdag that would enable Spelinspektionen to block payments more effectively to and from unlicensed gambling operators, and potentially conduct covert supervision. “The unlicensed gambling companies can do great damage and must be removed from the Swedish gambling market,” said Financial Markets Minister Niklas Wykman.
Strengthening Consumer Protection
By eliminating unlicensed gambling, the goal is to counter organised crime and reinforce consumer protection. “We welcome these extra funds which enable further strengthened measures in the fight against unlicensed gambling, money laundering and match-fixing,” commented Spelinspektionen’s Director General Camilla Rosenberg. Unlicensed gambling, she added, evades tax revenue, contributes to problem gambling, and leads to match-fixing.
