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Finland’s New Gambling System: Transitioning Towards a Regulated Market

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Finland is undergoing a significant overhaul of its gambling regulations, transitioning from a state-controlled monopoly system to a licensing model for certain gambling games. The draft legislation, prepared by the Ministry of the Interior, reflects objectives set in the Government Programme and aims to address issues such as unregulated gambling and consumer protection.

A Brief History of Gambling Legislation in the EU and Finland

Gambling regulation across the European Union has been shaped by diverse national approaches, often balancing consumer protection with economic interests. Historically, many EU countries operated under state-run gambling monopolies to control gambling-related harm and generate public revenue. However, in recent decades, the rise of online gambling has disrupted these traditional frameworks, leading to a shift toward licensing systems in countries like Denmark, Sweden, and Germany. These systems allow private operators to enter the market under strict regulation, creating a competitive yet controlled environment that curbs unregulated gambling.

Finland, however, has maintained a monopoly through Veikkaus Oy, with all gambling revenue funneled into public causes. While this approach limited domestic competition, it struggled to address the growing issue of unregulated online gambling offered by international operators. These platforms have drawn a significant share of Finnish players, creating gaps in consumer protection and tax revenue. Recognizing these challenges, the Finnish government has now proposed a transformative shift towards a licensing model, mirroring the successful transitions seen in neighboring EU countries.

A Phased Transition from Monopoly to Licensing

Under the proposed system, Veikkaus Oy will lose its exclusive rights to online casino, slot machines, and casino games, which will open up to licensed competition by 2027. Lotteries, physical slot machines, and certain betting games will remain under Veikkaus’ monopoly. The monopoly and competitive functions will be divided into separate entities within Veikkaus’ structure, allowing greater flexibility for future state ownership changes.

Enhanced Consumer Protection and Market Supervision

The new act mandates strict measures, including centralized gambling bans and identification requirements for players. Licensed operators will adhere to marketing restrictions, avoiding targeting vulnerable groups. A Finnish Supervisory Agency will oversee the market, replacing the National Police Board. It will monitor compliance, impose sanctions, and ensure alignment with anti-money laundering legislation.

Impacts on the Gambling Landscape

The licensing system aims to steer players from unregulated platforms to legal ones while preventing gambling-related harm. Applications for licenses will begin in 2026, with licensed operations launching in 2027. A network barring system and payment blocking will further curb illegal gambling activities.

Next Steps

The legislation is in consultation until August 2024 and expected to be presented to Parliament by spring 2025. If enacted, it will mark a milestone in Finland’s gambling policy, balancing consumer protection, market fairness, and revenue generation.

For further details, visit the Ministry of the Interior’s website.

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