The country’s online gaming market has been working through some changes for years
The Italian online gambling industry is undergoing a significant transformation. The Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli (ADM), Italy’s gambling regulatory body, has proposed a new framework for online gambling licensing. This framework, submitted to the Treasury and forming a key component of the broader “Reorganization of Gambling” decree, aims to implement stricter regulations and higher fees for online gambling licenses.
The proposed framework prioritizes enhanced regulatory control and transparency within the online gambling sector. This is reflected in the substantial increase in licensing fees. Previously, online gambling operators secured a concession for €200,000. Under the new framework, this fee jumps to a significant €7 million for a nine-year concession. This serves a dual purpose: deterring less serious operators and ensuring only financially secure companies can enter the market.
The framework goes beyond just financial requirements. It mandates stricter regulations, including enhanced IT security measures and stringent game integration requirements. Operators will be required to have their games and IT infrastructure rigorously assessed and certified by an independent body. This meticulous verification process aims to safeguard players and guarantee the fairness and integrity of online gambling experiences in Italy.
Another noteworthy change involves limitations on “skin” gambling websites. The new framework restricts operators to holding a single brand per license. This eliminates the previous practice of operating multiple brands under a single license, streamlining the regulatory environment and simplifying compliance monitoring and enforcement for the authorities.
The new framework is expected to have a considerable impact on the Italian online gambling landscape. The increased costs and stricter regulations are likely to deter less reputable operators, leading to a market populated by more reliable and financially sound companies. This, in turn, should elevate the overall quality and user experience of online gambling services available to Italian players.
However, the financial hurdles may also lead to industry consolidation. Smaller operators struggling to meet the new standards could be forced out, potentially resulting in a more concentrated market dominated by a few large players. This consolidation, however, could also foster increased competition among the remaining operators, potentially driving innovation and improving the overall user experience.
The framework also prioritizes responsible gambling by mandating operator investment in responsible gaming campaigns. This positive step tackles the social concerns associated with gambling and encourages a proactive approach to player protection. By establishing a robust regulatory framework with a focus on responsible gambling practices, Italy aims to create a safer and more sustainable online gambling environment for all stakeholders.
