Algarve cracks down on illegal gambling

The authorities in Algarve have opened 11 criminal proceedings in a move to fight illegal gambling in the territory.

Portugal.- The Food and Economic Safety Authority (ASAE) has revealed that in order to fight illegal gambling, it has opened 11 criminal proceedings. The authority conducted an operation called “Roulette Algarvia” at the beginning of last month and seized material worth around €65k, ASAE said.

“Roulette Algarvia” was conducted in Algarve in relation to illegal games practice outside authorised gambling locations. The raid ended up with 16 roulette wheels seized along with five kiosks, a laptop and cash, Portugal News reported

The raid, conducted by ASAE’s National Criminal Information and Investigation Unit (UNIIC) had the support of the local gambling regulator.

Portugal achieves iGaming revenue record

The iGaming industry in Portugal has posted a brand new record in 2Q19. According to figures released by the local gambling regulator Serviço Regulação e Inspeção de Jogos do Turismo de Portugal (SRIJ), Portugal broke its revenue record for the second consecutive quarter. Operators generated €48.3 million in the second quarter of the year, up from the €47.3 million generated in the first quarter.

The iGaming industry in Portugal also posted a 29.5% increase year-over-year in the second three-month period of 2019. In just H1, the local iGaming industry has already generated more revenue than in 2018. Last year, the industry reported a total of €78.9 million.

Contrary to other quarters, online casino was the leading segment in the 2Q19, registering  €25.3 million in revenue. This figure is up from the €22.6 million in the 1Q and the €16.8 million posted in 2018. Handle totalled €699.8 million, and slots took the biggest share of the market (67%).

On the other hand, sports betting posted a setback in the second quarter. Revenue totalled €23 million, approximately €4.8 million less than the first quarter.