After months of anticipation, the Finnish government has finally released the highly anticipated draft of the new gambling act, which includes a brand new licence system for operators in the country. The draft was unveiled on Thursday by the Ministry of the Interior, marking a significant step towards the modernisation and regulation of the gambling industry in Finland.
One of the key provisions of the new gambling act is the introduction of a licence system for operators seeking to offer their services in the country. Under the proposed system, operators will be required to apply for a licence from the Finnish Gambling Authority in order to legally operate in Finland. This move is aimed at ensuring that all operators adhere to strict regulations and guidelines set out by the government, thus providing a safer and more transparent gambling environment for Finnish players.
The draft also includes provisions for stricter measures to combat problem gambling, such as mandatory self-exclusion programs and tighter advertising regulations. These measures are in line with the Finnish government’s commitment to promoting responsible gambling and protecting vulnerable players from the potential harms associated with excessive gambling.
In addition to the new licence system, the draft also introduces changes to the taxation of gambling operators in Finland. Under the proposed system, operators will be subject to a new tax rate based on their gross gaming revenue, which is expected to generate significant revenue for the Finnish government while also ensuring a fair and competitive market for operators in the country.
The release of the draft gambling act has been met with mixed reactions from stakeholders in the industry. While some operators have welcomed the new regulations as a step towards a more transparent and regulated gambling market, others have expressed concerns about the potential impact on their business operations.
Overall, the proposed changes outlined in the draft gambling act represent a significant shift in the Finnish gambling industry. With the introduction of a new licence system, stricter regulations on problem gambling, and changes to the taxation of operators, the government is taking decisive steps to modernise and regulate the industry in Finland. It remains to be seen how these changes will impact the gambling landscape in the country, but one thing is clear – the Finnish government is committed to ensuring a safe and responsible gambling environment for all players.
