Norway Takes Action Against Malta-based Casino Operators
Malta online operators working in Norway
As per the current laws in Norway, Norsk Rikstoto and Norsk Tipping are the only ones who have the rights to provide gambling services in the country. These state-run operators offer services such as casino games sports betting, and race betting to the residents of the nation.
According to the Norwegian Gaming Authority (NGA), several Malta-based casino operators have been offering illegal services to gamblers in the country. Due to their popularity among resident bettors, several lawmakers have been trying to take action against them. They were unsuccessful in their attempts, as their efforts didn’t change anything.
However, it looks like things are about to change in the country. As these companies violated the laws of Norway, the nation took strict action against them.
Gambling operators to face immense difficulties in Norway
Gaming Innovation Group, L&L Europe Players Ltd., Dino Gaming Ltd., Kindred Group, Co-Gaming, Ltd., and Betsson Group can no longer conduct transactions. NGA sent orders to local banks, asking them to block any payment that goes to and comes from these gambling operators. According to the regulatory body, they have ties with 200 financial institutions, to ensure implementation of their ban.
A spokesperson from NGA stated that these gambling operators are guilty of providing their services to Norwegians, despite not having permission from the country.
These organizations received letters from the regulator, requesting them to put an end to the practice of targeting players in Norway. The move from NGA comes after the country’s attempt to clean their local gambling space while preventing the operation of unauthorized companies.
There are also attempts from the government to close a significant loophole. The current rules and regulations allow gaming operators to market their services, as long as it is on satellite channels.
The Norweigan government spoke about why it wants to follow a monopoly system. According to officials, this type of practice is beneficial for gambling customers, as it improves protection.
Companies stand together against Norway’s decision
Several Malta-based gambling operators formed the Norwegian Industry Association for Online Gambling, to tackle the recent changes in the country. The group will lobby for liberalizing and reorganizing the gambling market. They aim to allow international companies to receive local licenses, which will enable these businesses to offer services, which meet the regulations of the country.
Kindred Group filed a lawsuit against NGA, as they believe the regulatory body is placing unfair restrictions on trade. The company took legal action after NGA’s policies to remove gambling apps from the Apple App Store came into the picture.
