Swedish Government Reverse Online Gaming Restrictions

Sweden’s plan to re-establish gaming control measures across its online gaming market have been abandoned, a mere week ahead of its proposed launch date. The controls, a reaction to the sweeping spread of the Omicron variant, were due to land next Monday, and last, at least provisionally, until end of June.

However, the government have determined that these restrictions are no longer necessary. In an attempt to mitigate against the risk of irresponsible gaming, the Scandinavian state introduced a raft of stipulations on online casino platforms. Bonus incentives were limited to 100SEK ($10) in scope, and it was obligatory for punters to set time limits on playing duration. Players could also only deposit a maximum of 5,000 SEK (just north of $500 dollars), a number which Ardalan Shekarabi, Minister for Health and Social Affairs, subsequently reduced by another 1,000 SEK ($100).

Shekarabi has been a fierce campaigner for tighter restrictions on gaming operators in recent months. And, although the re-installation of COVID reactionary measures has been averted, the minister has still submitted a reform proposal for the sector. This bill includes a compulsory licensing requirement for third-party games, and for software platform providers who support Swedish gambling firms. It will also be necessary for operators to offer full financial transparency in their commercial activities.

The decision to cull the planned curbs has been supported by industry insiders, with organizations such as the Swedish Trade Association for Online Gaming relieved at the governments more relaxed stance. The group had been particularly vocal in their criticism of the re-introduction of deposit limits.

Given increased confidence around the state’s COVID situation, Sweden’s gaming operators will be optimistic that any future potential sanctions will be avoided.