Sweden’s parliament passes gambling bill

The parliament approved a bill that paves the way for new gambling regulations in the country.

Sweden.- The Swedish parliament approved late last week the proposed changes that will change gambling regulations in the country. The bill was overwhelmingly approved by the parliament by 282-19.

While the changes are not expected to come into force until January 1st, 2019, the licensing process that will allow gaming operators to apply for licences will start on August 1st. A final vote on the bill will take place this week, and the approval from the Committee seems like a good step to introduce new regulations.

Earlier this month, the Committee on Cultural Affairs voiced its support and said: “This proposed reform is long-awaited. The proposal means that today’s outdated monopoly will be replaced by a modern legislation that will include the whole of the expanding gambling market.”

Operators that want to hold a licence must pay €38,900, and companies that seek both online gambling and betting will see that number increase to SEK700,000.

Sweden’s aim is to create a gambling market with high consumer protection, high safety in the games and clear conditions for operating on the market through a licensing system open to serious operators that want to take part and be responsible.