Sweden to relax online gambling monopoly

Virtual casino. Online gambling. Laptop with dice and chips.

Following an 18 month review of online gambling in Sweden that was commissioned by the government and carried out by the Swedish Gambling Authority and Director General Håkan Hallstedt It has found that the current monopoly could end.

It is suggested that a more open and liberal approach to allowing international operators in to the country by relaxing the current licensing laws. The review suggested that should those operators meet the requirements for the license they should be allowed to offer their services in Sweden also.

Reports say the government is considering an 18% tax on gross revenue for international operators to work in the country, observers say this is higher than the UK which is 15% but not the highest rate in Europe given that Denmark has a 20% tax rate.

Currently the review is only a proposal and no time line has been given for the possible changes.