UK’s online gambling on the rise

Since 2014, the UK Gambling Commission requires online operators to be licensed in the country strengthening the industry and upgrading the sites’ quality.

UK.- According to data revealed by the UK Gambling Commission, the domestic gambling industry had surpassed £7.1 billion (US$10.12 bn) for the period between September 2014 and the same month in 2015. These figures do not include the National Lottery. These numbers prove that the UK’s gambling industry has evolved to become one of the most important in the world.

Regarding online gambling, the rise in interest for online poker started in 2004. In 2005 and after realising the potential for online gambling, the UK introduced the Gambling Act 2005 allowing gambling operators to have greater advertising opportunities. The presence of major operators such as 188BET Casino, BGO Vegas and Gaming Club has driven the industry to pursue new breakthroughs.

At first, the Gambling Commission did not force UK-facing gambling sites to be licensed in the country until 2014, when legislation required for all sites where UK users play, to be licensed in the country. This change was beneficial for the industry and resulted in a stronger, more quality-driven marketplace for players, who have access to better sites.

The Gambling Commission is driven to to maintain a competitive marketplace and also provide vital forms of protection to combat problem gambling. The commission is only concerned with sites operating in the UK.