The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has introduced its updated regulatory strategy for 2025, aiming to refine its oversight of the online gaming sector. The revised approach is designed to improve risk assessment, strengthen compliance measures, and enhance collaboration with licensed operators. With a stronger focus on evidence-based supervision, the authority intends to ensure the sector remains transparent, secure, and in line with evolving industry challenges.

A Data-Driven Approach to Risk Management

The MGA’s supervisory framework has evolved into a more outcome-oriented model, allowing for a precise allocation of resources to high-risk areas. This transition is expected to improve regulatory effectiveness and help operators align more closely with compliance requirements. The authority is also set to implement targeted interventions that address specific risks within the industry.

To promote better engagement, the MGA will intensify its collaboration with operators, offering greater clarity on compliance expectations. Through continuous assessments, licensees will be encouraged to uphold regulatory standards while demonstrating proactive adherence to responsible gaming policies.

The regulatory body plans to use structured audits and thematic reviews to assess key industry functions, ensuring that compliance measures are both practical and effective. Operators will be required to maintain clear documentation, submit regulatory reports on time, and demonstrate accountability in their business practices.

Core Regulatory Priorities for 2025

The MGA’s key areas of regulatory focus for the coming year include:

• Regulatory Compliance and Corporate Governance – Operators will be subject to detailed compliance audits and governance assessments to verify that their internal policies align with MGA standards.
• Responsible Gambling and Player Protection – The authority will strengthen its monitoring of player self-exclusion mechanisms and responsible gambling programs. Reviews will be conducted to ensure these measures are actively enforced and effective in identifying problem gambling behavior.
• Sports Betting Integrity – The MGA will analyze betting patterns within Malta’s football sector and review licensees’ procedures for identifying and reporting suspicious betting activity. The aim is to increase industry-wide transparency and prevent fraudulent behavior.

Strengthened Supervision and Compliance Engagement

To maintain regulatory integrity, the MGA will continue utilizing full-scope audits, site inspections, mystery shopping exercises, and direct operator engagement. These tools will help the authority assess compliance levels across various licensees while identifying potential gaps that require attention.

Furthermore, the MGA is committed to fostering a more open dialogue with stakeholders, ensuring operators remain well-informed about evolving compliance obligations. By refining its approach to regulatory oversight, the authority aims to build a gaming sector that is both resilient and sustainable while prioritizing consumer safety and fair industry practices.

Source:

Regulatory Oversight: Supervisory Engagement Efforts 2025 Remote Gaming Sector [pdf], Malta Gaming Authority, February 25, 2025.

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Gran Madrid | Casino Online has announced its migration to Gaming Innovation Group’s (GiG) CoreX iGaming platform, marking a significant upgrade in its digital infrastructure. Having partnered with GiG since 2016, the Spanish operator is now transitioning to a platform designed to offer greater scalability, AI-powered risk management, and deep data-driven insights.

The move underscores GiG’s commitment to product innovation, as CoreX introduces advanced tools such as LogicX and DataX, which leverage AI-driven analytics to assess player risk levels. These technologies will enhance player engagement, security, and operational efficiency, positioning Gran Madrid | Casino Online for sustained growth in Spain’s competitive iGaming market.

AI-Driven Solutions and Market Expansion

As part of this transition, Gran Madrid | Casino Online will benefit from CoreX’s sophisticated risk-scoring system, which allows for dynamic risk assessment and tailored player interactions. The enhanced data capabilities and third-party integrations will provide a more personalized and secure gaming experience, a key factor in customer retention and regulatory compliance.

GiG’s platform also includes a wide range of localized casino content and multiple payment solutions, which have been instrumental in customer acquisition and engagement in regulated markets like Spain. GiG currently powers over 9% of the country’s online gaming sector, reinforcing its role as a dominant technology provider in the region.

Strategic Growth and Corporate Developments

The transition to CoreX aligns with GiG’s broader corporate restructuring efforts. In late 2024, the company spun off its media division into Gentoo Media, allowing GiG to focus exclusively on B2B iGaming solutions, including its proprietary sportsbook and platform technology.

The announcement also follows GiG’s partnership with Nuvei, revealed in January 2025, which integrates Nuvei’s payment solutions into CoreX. This collaboration aims to enhance payment processing efficiency and expand deposit and payout options across multiple regions.

GiG’s partner-centric strategy has helped secure multiple high-profile renewals, including agreements with Betsson and LuckyDays. The decision by Gran Madrid | Casino Online to upgrade to CoreX further cements GiG’s reputation for delivering scalable, AI-powered technology that meets the evolving needs of operators.

Industry Leaders Highlight the Benefits of the Partnership

Richard Carter, CEO of GiG, expressed his enthusiasm about the transition, stating: “The migration of Gran Madrid | Casino Online onto the CoreX platform is defining evidence of the continuous commitment everyone has at GiG to delivering cutting-edge solutions that drive real value.”

James Coxon, Chief Operating Officer at GiG, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that “adaptability and innovation are key to success in the industry. Our role is to ensure our partners have access to the best technology to stay at the forefront of the market.”

José Félix Herreros, Country Manager at Gran Madrid | Casino Online, highlighted the importance of the partnership, stating: “Our collaboration with GiG has been instrumental in strengthening our online presence, complementing our land-based heritage with a cutting-edge digital experience. We look forward to continuing this successful relationship as we expand in the Spanish market.”

With CoreX’s AI-powered tools, expanded data insights, and integrated payment solutions, Gran Madrid | Casino Online’s migration marks a major step forward in its digital transformation, reinforcing its position in Spain’s regulated online gaming landscape.

Source:

GRAN|MADRID Upgrades to GiG’s Next-Generation CoreX Platform, in Long-Term Extension, PR Newswire, February 26, 2025.

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The Italian Senate is set to review the 2018 Dignity Decree, which has banned gambling sponsorships in sports since 2019. This proposed revision could mark a major shift for Italian football, particularly Serie A, Serie B, and Serie C clubs, by reintroducing betting partnerships that were once a major source of revenue.

Senate Review and Industry Response

The Senate Culture Committee is expected to discuss modifications to the Dignity Decree, which originally prohibited direct and indirect gambling advertising across all media, including sports events, television, online platforms, and print. The law was introduced as a measure to combat gambling addiction but has been widely criticized for its financial impact on football clubs.

Over the past six years, the ban has cost Serie A clubs an estimated €100 million annually, affecting their ability to compete financially with other European leagues. The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) and Lega Serie A have lobbied heavily for the ban’s removal, arguing that the law has disadvantaged Italian clubs compared to their international counterparts.

If the revision is approved, clubs will be allowed to display betting company logos on team jerseys, sleeves, and pitchside advertising boards. However, only operators licensed by Italy’s Customs and Monopoly Agency (ADM) will be permitted to engage in sponsorship deals.

Economic Impact and Revenue Allocation

Lifting the ban could significantly boost Italian football’s financial health, allowing clubs to secure lucrative sponsorship agreements with betting firms. Given the rising profitability of Italy’s online gambling sector, which reached a gross gaming revenue (GGR) of €5 billion in 2024—an 11% year-on-year increase—experts anticipate strong interest from gaming companies looking to partner with football clubs.

Additionally, a 1.1% tax on sports betting revenue is proposed to be allocated toward:

• New stadium construction and the modernization of existing venues, supporting Italy’s role as a UEFA Euro 2032 co-host.
• Grassroots football development, including youth academies and women’s soccer programs.
• Social and training initiatives aimed at responsible gambling education.

Criticism and Regulatory Challenges

Despite widespread support from football stakeholders, the proposal faces opposition from consumer protection advocates who argue that gambling sponsorships could increase problem gambling risks. Italy’s Director General of ADM, Roberto Alesse, has called the Dignity Decree “hypocritical regulation”, arguing that a complete ban contradicts the principles of a free-market economy.

The government’s move aligns with broader efforts to modernize Italy’s gambling laws. The Reorganization of Gambling Decree is already under review, though it initially excluded sponsorship discussions. However, the strong backing from FIGC, CONI (Italian National Olympic Committee), and Serie A suggests that a policy shift is imminent.

A Turning Point for Italian Football

If implemented, the reform would restore a vital revenue stream for clubs, making them more competitive financially while also supporting Italy’s long-term sports infrastructure projects. As the Senate Culture Committee prepares to make its announcement, the Italian football and betting industries await what could be a defining moment for the country’s sports economy.

Source:

Calcio and Politics to negotiate Italy’s new gambling sponsorship laws, SBCNEWS, February 26, 2025.

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Hawaii’s push to legalize online sports betting is gaining momentum as HB 1308 advances to the House floor following approval from the Finance Committee. However, the proposal has not secured unanimous support, with some lawmakers voicing concerns over regulation, tax rates, and potential social risks.

On February 24, the House Finance Committee approved HB 1308 with a 12-3 vote, although six members who supported it did so “with reservations.” Prior to the vote, Committee Chair Kyle Yamashita introduced amendments to make the bill more palatable, including removing the proposed 10% tax rate and $250,000 licensing fee for further review. Yamashita emphasized that discussions on sports betting regulation should continue, calling the bill “a work in progress.”

Meanwhile, a companion bill, SB 1569, is scheduled for a Senate Ways and Means Committee hearing on Wednesday, marking another critical step in Hawaii’s legislative process.

Amendments to Licensing and Tax Structure

One of the major debates surrounding HB 1308 has been the financial framework for taxation and licensing. Some lawmakers expressed concerns that the originally proposed $250,000 licensing fee for a five-year period was too low, given the multi-billion-dollar sports betting industry.

Rep. Sue L Keohokapu-Lee Loy stated,

“I would love to see that license fee go up exponentially.”

Nadine Ando, Director of the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, also questioned whether the proposed structure would generate enough funds to regulate the industry effectively. With only four licenses available, the state would collect just $200,000 annually in fees, an amount Ando described as insufficient to oversee the industry properly.

With these concerns in mind, lawmakers removed the tax rate and licensing fee from the bill, allowing for further revisions before finalization.

Rep. Daniel Holt, the bill’s sponsor, supported the amendments, stating:

“I personally don’t think we’re going to be creating a bunch of new gamblers. We’re just going to be collecting the tax revenue from those who already choose to participate in this form of entertainment. The fee’s got to go up, tax has got to go up.”

Support and Opposition Perspectives

As in previous committee hearings, unions and sportsbooks expressed strong support for the bill, citing economic benefits and the potential to regulate an already-existing offshore market. Representatives from BetMGM, DraftKings, and the Sports Betting Alliance (SBA) backed the proposal, arguing that legalizing sports betting would increase tax revenue and provide law enforcement with tools to combat illegal gambling.

The SBA, which includes BetMGM, DraftKings, Fanatics Sportsbook, and FanDuel, projected that Hawaii’s annual tax revenue could range between $10-$20 million based on a 10% tax rate. In comparison:

• Maine (pop. 1.4M): Launched legal sports betting in November 2023, recording a $550 million handle in its first year and $6 million in tax revenue (at a 10% tax rate).
• West Virginia (pop. 1.77M): Has generated $2.8 billion in bets and $25.9 million in tax revenue since launching digital sports betting in 2019.

Proponents also highlighted the economic ripple effects beyond direct tax revenue. BetMGM’s Director of Government Affairs, Jeremy Limun, pointed to increased foot traffic at bars, restaurants, and other hospitality venues, linking online sports betting with broader economic benefits.

However, opponents—including state officials and problem gambling advocacy groups—warned of potential social consequences, such as:

• An increase in problem gambling and addiction-related bankruptcies
• Financial hardship for vulnerable residents
• Potential links between gambling and crime

The bill includes provisions to allocate funds for problem gambling prevention and treatment, but concerns remain over the long-term impact on Hawaii’s residents.

What’s Next for the Bill?

With HB 1308 advancing to the full House chamber, the next step will be a floor vote, though a date has not yet been scheduled. Meanwhile, the Senate version (SB 1569) is set for committee discussion on Wednesday, with its progress closely watched.

The Hawaii legislative session runs until May 2, 2025, with a key March 6 deadline for bills to pass from one chamber to the other. Whether lawmakers will reach a consensus on taxation, licensing fees, and regulatory oversight remains a central issue in the weeks ahead.

Source:

Hawaii digital sports betting bill heads to house floor, iGaming Business, February 25, 2025.

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BetBlocker has expanded its free gambling self-exclusion software to include Italian-language support, furthering its mission to make responsible gambling tools more widely accessible. This update means that 67 million Italian speakers can now navigate the tool in their native language, reducing barriers for those seeking help with gambling addiction.

Bringing Responsible Gambling Support to More Players

Unlike commercial blocking software, which prioritizes markets with higher financial returns, BetBlocker focuses on accessibility—ensuring its tools are available to as many people as possible, regardless of location. This latest expansion follows the charity’s previous multilingual efforts in Africa, where it introduced support for Bemba, Nyanja, and Tonga, making the tool available to Zambian communities in partnership with Entain and Fresh Start Zambia.

The Italian translation was entirely voluntary, completed by Safer Gambling Analyst Francesco Casartelli, who saw a need for the tool in his native language. Reflecting on his contribution, Casartelli said:

“As soon as I noticed that my native language was missing on the website, I could not say no to extending the protection that BetBlocker provides for free to Italian speakers. Safer gambling is founded on giving help and being able to do that makes me proud.”

BetBlocker publicly thanked Casartelli for his work, emphasizing how this translation will directly help thousands of new users.

A Growing Commitment to Multilingual Support

Italy has one of Europe’s most active gambling markets, yet problem gambling remains a significant issue. A 2021 study published in Minerva Medica found that 3% of the Italian population could be classified as problem gamblers. BetBlocker’s expansion aims to provide these individuals with an accessible and anonymous solution to control their gambling habits.

BetBlocker’s Founder and Trustee, Duncan Garvie, acknowledged the importance of this project, stating:

“We’ve encountered some operators, regulators and charities willing to invest time to help translate BetBlocker into a new language. But rarely have we encountered a private person willing to sacrifice their own free time to help us deliver the service to a new audience.”

This latest expansion aligns with BetBlocker’s broader European initiatives. During European Safer Gambling Week 2024, the charity partnered with EveryMatrix to launch a Maltese-language version of the tool. Additionally, BetBlocker was selected as Clarion Gaming’s official charity partner for 2025, incorporating responsible gambling advocacy into key industry events like ICE Barcelona and iGB Live.

Prioritizing Accessibility Over Profit

In an official LinkedIn post, BetBlocker reaffirmed its commitment to responsible gaming, stating:

“Gambling addiction is no different in Zambia, Brazil or Serbia than it is in the UK, US or the Netherlands. It is critical that we remove unnecessary friction to our free, anonymous support for as many people as possible.”

By expanding language support, BetBlocker continues to ensure that problem gamblers worldwide, regardless of their native language, have access to free, anonymous, and effective self-exclusion tools.

Source: LinkedIn, February 2025.

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Baden-Württemberg has officially approved a state-regulated online casino model, making it the third German state to legalize virtual table games. The decision follows similar moves by Bavaria in April 2024 and Schleswig-Holstein in September 2024, as part of Germany’s broader effort to transition online gambling into a strictly controlled legal market.

Under the newly enacted Landesglücksspielgesetz amendments, the southwestern state will permit online versions of blackjack, roulette, and other table games, but only through a state-run monopoly. The platform will be operated solely by Staatliche Toto-Lotto GmbH, restricting private operators from entering the market. Government officials argue that this approach is necessary to ensure effective player protection and prevent illegal gambling, though industry critics warn that the decision prioritizes state revenue over competition.

A Response to the Rise of Unregulated Gambling

The German Interstate Treaty on Gambling (GlüStV 2021) granted states the right to regulate virtual casinos independently. While online slots and sports betting were legalized nationwide, table games remained subject to state-level decisions.

Lawmakers in Baden-Württemberg justified the move by highlighting the prevalence of unlicensed gambling providers and the need for a safer alternative. According to the official legislative bill, state-licensed casinos aim to protect consumers from unregulated platforms that lack necessary safeguards.

Taxation and Financial Framework

The regulation introduces a progressive tax system for online casino operators:

• A 15% tax on revenue up to €300,000 per month
• A 20% tax on revenue between €300,000 and €750,000
• A 25% tax on revenue exceeding €750,000

This tax structure mirrors the approach taken by Bavaria and Schleswig-Holstein, ensuring a significant financial contribution to the state while aiming to deter illegal offshore gambling.

Strict Consumer Protection Rules

Baden-Württemberg’s online casino regulation will impose some of Germany’s strictest gambling restrictions, similar to existing controls on regulated online slots. The law mandates:

• A €1 stake limit per spin
• A five-second delay between spins
• A €1,000 monthly deposit limit across all operators, unless players pass income verification checks

To further safeguard consumers, the state is establishing a dedicated gambling addiction prevention unit known as Fachstelle Glücksspielsucht Baden-Württemberg. This body will coordinate addiction prevention programs, conduct research, and promote public awareness campaigns about gambling risks.

Criticism Over Monopoly Model

The introduction of a state-controlled monopoly has been met with opposition from industry stakeholders and political figures. Critics argue that excluding private operators limits competition and reduces consumer choice.

Daniel Karrais of the FDP suggested that the monopoly model was chosen to maximize state profit, rather than improve player protections. Similarly, SPD representative Sascha Binder questioned whether the state’s resources are sufficient to enforce the new regulations, given the widespread nature of online gambling.

Gambling addiction specialists have also raised concerns, noting that state-regulated platforms may increase advertising to attract users. Klara Metzger, an expert in addiction prevention, has called for tighter advertising restrictions to minimize potential gambling harm.

Enhanced Regulatory Oversight

In addition to online casino oversight, the law includes measures to increase enforcement efforts against unlicensed gambling venues. The Regierungspräsidium Karlsruhe will form a dedicated task force with 13 officers responsible for conducting inspections at betting shops and gaming halls.

Authorities will also implement test plays and undercover investigations to monitor online platforms and ensure compliance with responsible gambling policies.

Germany’s Expanding Online Casino Market

Baden-Württemberg’s decision follows a growing trend of state-level casino regulation in Germany. The 2021 gambling treaty set the framework for legalization, but each state has since taken its own approach to implementation.

With Bavaria, Schleswig-Holstein, and now Baden-Württemberg regulating virtual casinos, other German states may follow suit. The ongoing debate over monopoly models versus competitive licensing systems is likely to shape future gambling policies nationwide.

Sources:

Roulette im Netz – Baden-Württemberg erlaubt Online-Kasinos, landtag-bw.de, February 19, 2025.

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The United Arab Emirates (UAE) gaming industry experienced significant shifts in 2024, with six licences granted by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) and an increasing interest in casino-related searches.

The sector recorded a 28% rise in search traffic, driven by regulatory changes and growing public curiosity. Among the entities securing licences were The Game LLC, the operator of the UAE Lottery, and Wynn Al Marjan, currently developing the nation’s first integrated casino resort.

UAE Lottery and Its Rapid Growth in 2024

The UAE Lottery was one of the year’s biggest gaming successes, with search interest skyrocketing by 3,100% following the launch of The Game LLC, the first company to obtain a UAE lottery license. However, the excitement proved short-lived, as interest declined by 50% by early 2025, and searches for The Game LLC dropped 87%.

This trend highlights a pattern in gaming regulation, where major announcements generate short-term spikes in interest, but long-term engagement stabilizes. Analysts suggest that GCGRA’s ongoing regulatory initiatives will play a crucial role in sustaining public interest in licensed gaming.

Wynn Al Marjan and the Casino Sector’s Development

In 2024, Wynn Resorts became the first company to secure a UAE commercial gaming operator’s licence for its ambitious Ras Al Khaimah casino project. Public interest in the Wynn Al Marjan resort remained steady throughout the year, with a 17% surge in search traffic in October following the licensing announcement.

By early 2025, searches for Wynn Ras Al Khaimah climbed 63% from December to January, reflecting sustained enthusiasm about the casino’s progress. Meanwhile, other potential UAE casino projects, such as MGM Dubai, have not seen a similar rise in public attention.

While MGM Dubai has yet to receive a GCGRA license, industry insiders anticipate further licensing announcements in the coming months as the UAE gaming landscape continues to evolve.

Online Gambling Interest Grows Despite Lack of Regulation

While land-based gaming is advancing through GCGRA-approved licenses, online gambling remains unregulated in the UAE. Despite this, search data from Dubai Casinos indicates a 61% increase in online casino interest throughout 2024, suggesting that demand for digital gaming is on the rise.

The report states, “Internet and Sports Wagering remain unlicensed, which could indicate future evolution in digital regulation.” Analysts note that engagement with online gambling has remained stable, fluctuating within ±10% month to month, which signals a loyal player base that could expand significantly if official online gaming licenses are introduced.

Given GCGRA’s primary focus on land-based gaming, experts predict that 2025 may see the introduction of online gambling regulations, aligning the UAE with global gaming markets where digital regulation follows land-based expansion.

Strengthening the Gaming Vendor Ecosystem

Beyond issuing operator licences, GCGRA has also approved several gaming-related vendors, including Aristocrat Technologies Europe, Smartplay International, PayBy Technology, and Xpoint Technology. These companies are instrumental in enhancing both digital and physical gaming experiences by introducing new products and innovations across various gaming sectors.

According to the report, “As these companies introduce new products and innovations, they are set to enhance both digital and physical gaming experiences—whether through lotteries, prize draws, or integrated gaming systems for online and land-based casinos.”

With continued investment in gaming vendor licenses, 2025 could witness an expansion in gaming opportunities fueled by technological advancements and regulatory progress.

Looking ahead, 2025 is expected to be a transformative year for UAE gaming, with analysts forecasting three major developments:

1. Potential regulation of online gaming and sports betting
2. Expansion of land-based and hybrid gaming venues
3. Growth of the gaming vendor ecosystem

The UAE gaming sector experienced remarkable progress in 2024, with new licensing milestones shaping the industry’s trajectory. As regulators assess new opportunities, the coming year may prove to be pivotal for the introduction of online gaming, sports betting, and the continued expansion of casino resorts.

Source:

UAE grants six gambling licences as casino interest rises by 28%, report reveals, sigma.world, February 20, 2025.

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Reevo has taken a significant step in its Italian expansion by partnering with Microgame via ESA Gaming. This agreement will allow Microgame’s network of operators to integrate Reevo’s premium gaming content, further expanding its footprint in one of Europe’s key regulated iGaming markets.

A Strategic Move in the Italian Market

Reevo officially entered Italy’s iGaming sector on December 9, 2024, after securing the required certification. Since then, the company has actively expanded in the jurisdiction, first partnering with Tuko Productions and now strengthening its presence with Microgame, one of Italy’s leading gaming providers.

Microgame, known for its technological expertise and extensive reach, currently supports over 120 brands and 50 online platforms, managing a combined total of 1 million player accounts. The addition of Reevo’s slot portfolio is expected to further enhance Microgame’s casino offerings, providing Italian operators with fresh, innovative content.

Karl Grech, Head of Business Development at Reevo, highlighted the significance of the collaboration:

“Partnering with Microgame is an exciting step for Reevo as we continue our mission to bring top-tier gaming content to new markets. Italy is a key region for us, and Microgame’s extensive reach and technological expertise make them the perfect partner. We look forward to seeing our games engage and entertain Italian players while providing operators with innovative, revenue-driving content.”

Microgame Expands Its Casino Portfolio

This partnership also aligns with Microgame’s growth strategy. By integrating Reevo’s diverse slot collection, the company continues to strengthen its position in Italy’s highly competitive iGaming landscape.

Francesco Cuzzupoli, Gaming Product Director at Microgame, commented on the agreement, stating:

“We are extremely pleased to announce our partnership with Reevo through ESA Gaming, a collaboration that aligns perfectly with our corporate strategy. This agreement allows us to further strengthen our casino platform’s position in the Italian market by integrating Reevo’s innovative game portfolio. By expanding our offering with these high-quality and engaging titles, we continue to enhance the gaming experience for our clients, ensuring a diverse and dynamic selection of content that meets the evolving demands of players.”

Reevo Joins Other Industry Leaders in Italy

Reevo is not the only iGaming provider expanding in Italy through Microgame. In addition to this agreement, Microgame recently secured a partnership with Jelly Entertainment, further diversifying its gaming content portfolio.

As Reevo continues its expansion into regulated markets, this collaboration represents another milestone in its global growth strategy. With Italy identified as a priority region, the company is expected to continue building relationships that strengthen its presence in the country’s evolving gaming landscape.

What’s Next for Reevo?

As the Italian gaming market develops, Reevo remains focused on delivering engaging and high-quality gaming experiences. With Microgame’s extensive operator network, this partnership ensures that Italian players will have greater access to Reevo’s slot content, reinforcing its position as a rising force in iGaming.

Source:

Reevo strengthens Italian presence through partnership with Microgame, reevotech.com, February 18, 2025.

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Thailand’s Entertainment Complex Business Act, a draft law designed to legalize and regulate casino-entertainment complexes, has entered the final stage of public consultation and is expected to be submitted to the Cabinet for approval on March 4, 2025. If approved, the bill will then proceed to Parliament for deliberation, a government source confirmed.

Casino Bill Advances Toward Legalization

Since its initial approval in principle on January 13, 2025, the draft bill has undergone scrutiny by the Council of State and has been reviewed through three rounds of public hearings. The final public hearing will conclude on March 1, after which the bill will be presented to the Cabinet.

The proposed law aims to regulate Thailand’s underground gambling sector, allowing the establishment of casino-entertainment complexes to generate tax revenue and boost the national economy.

The bill consists of eight key sections, covering:

• Definition of entertainment complexes and their legal scope
• Creation of the Entertainment Complex Policy Committee and its responsibilities
• Formation of a regulatory body to manage oversight and compliance
• Authorities and responsibilities of officials involved in enforcement
• Permit application process and operational guidelines for casino businesses
• Social impact measures, including responsible gambling initiatives
• Penalties for violations and unauthorized operations
• Transitional regulations to align existing businesses with the new framework

Financial Requirements for Casino Operators and Players

The bill establishes strict financial criteria for casino businesses.

• Operators must have at least 10 billion baht (€260 million) in registered capital and be 51% Thai-owned.
• Casino licenses will be valid for 30 years and renewable every 10 years.
• A casino permit fee of 5 billion baht (€130 million) has been set, with an annual renewal fee of 1 billion baht (€26 million).

Additionally, access for Thai nationals will be highly restricted:

• They must pay a 5,000 baht (€130) entrance fee per visit.
• Only individuals over 20 years old can enter.
• Casino visitors must maintain a fixed deposit account of 50 million baht (€1.3 million) to qualify for entry.

These financial restrictions have been designed to discourage Thai citizens from gambling, as confirmed by Pakorn Nilprapunt, Secretary-General of the Council of State.

“We don’t want the public to be bogged down by this gambling fanfare,” Pakorn told The Bangkok Post. “[The entertainment complexes]

are man-made tourism attractions; that’s the focus, not the gambling. I think if we impose strict measures, we might be able to prevent Thais from entering and becoming gambling addicts.”

Projected Timeline for Casino Development

If enacted, the Entertainment Complex Business Act will be implemented in phases:

• 2026 – A feasibility study will begin, followed by a bidding process for casino operators.
• 2027 – Construction of casino-entertainment complexes is scheduled to commence.
• 2030-2031 – The first casino complexes are expected to open within three to four years of construction.

Debate Over Casino Legislation

The proposal has sparked debate across Thailand. Supporters believe the legalization of casinos could boost tourism, create jobs, and contribute significant tax revenue. Critics, however, argue that gambling addiction and financial risks could outweigh the benefits, even with the preventive measures in the bill.

Despite these concerns, the Thai government continues to push forward with its regulatory plans, with discussions on casino legalization taking center stage as the bill moves closer to approval.

Source:

Casino bill draft to be ready for Cabinet approval early next month, nationthailand.com, February 20, 2025.

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The Directorate General for the Regulation of Gambling (DGOJ), part of Spain’s Ministry of Social Rights, Consumption, and the 2030 Agenda, has organized its first Sectoral Conference on the Prevention of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing in Online Gaming. The event, held on February 6, 2025, was conducted in collaboration with the Public Treasury and the Executive Service of the Commission for the Prevention of Money Laundering and Monetary Offenses (Sepblac).

The conference brought together representatives from the DGOJ, Sepblac, the Public Treasury, and authorized online gambling operators to address regulatory compliance challenges and identify key risks in the industry.

Encouraging Public-Private Collaboration

The event, which took place at the DGOJ headquarters in Madrid, was inaugurated by Mikel Arana, Director General of Gaming Regulation, alongside Irene Sánchez Pérez, advisory member of the Public Treasury.

Throughout the session, Sepblac and financial intelligence experts provided insights into:

• Recent regulatory developments and sanctions at the European and international levels
• Findings from operator inspections
• The role of financial intelligence in identifying and preventing high-risk transactions

Following the presentations, a roundtable discussion took place with participation from Alberto Navarro, Deputy Assistant Director of Inspection at the DGOJ, as well as representatives from Sepblac and the Public Treasury. This session allowed online gaming operators to raise concerns and ask questions about compliance and risk management.

The initiative aims to establish an ongoing dialogue between the public sector and licensed online gaming operators, fostering greater cooperation in combating money laundering in Spain’s gaming industry. The DGOJ has expressed its intent to hold similar conferences in the future to further strengthen industry collaboration.

DGOJ Expands Digital Presence with a New Website and Social Media Profiles

Alongside its regulatory efforts, the DGOJ has launched a revamped website and expanded its presence on social media to enhance transparency and accessibility for both operators and players.

The new DGOJ website features:

• A more intuitive design for improved navigation
• A mobile-friendly layout optimized for smartphones and tablets
• Enhanced accessibility standards to ensure usability for all citizens
• New and updated sections covering regulations, licenses, fraud prevention, and player protection

In addition, the DGOJ has reactivated its social media presence on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, while also launching a new profile on Bluesky. These channels will be used to share updates on gambling regulations, responsible gaming initiatives, and awareness campaigns.

The DGOJ encourages both the public and industry stakeholders to follow its social media accounts and visit its new website to stay informed on the latest developments in Spain’s gambling sector.

Sources:

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