BOS Urges Renewed Gambling Inquiry as Sweden Falls Short on Channelization Goals
Concerns Over Sweden’s Gambling Regulation
Sweden’s primary online gambling trade association is urging lawmakers to reconsider the current regulatory system due to ongoing challenges posed by offshore gambling operators, which continue to attract a significant number of players. This appeal emerges following a recent report from the national gambling authority indicating that 85% of gamblers use licensed platforms.
Channelization Rates Still Below Target
The Branschföreningen för Onlinespel (BOS) has formally requested the Ministry of Finance to initiate a comprehensive review of the gambling sector. Its main focus is on improving Sweden’s channelization rate — the proportion of gambling that occurs through licensed operators as opposed to unauthorized ones.
Recent data from the Swedish Gambling Authority reveals that the actual channelization rate remains below the government’s target of at least 90%. Current figures stand at 85% overall and are even lower within online casino gambling, ranging between 72% and 82%.
Though these numbers represent an improvement from before the introduction of the updated regulatory framework, when less than half of the gambling activity was conducted through licensed sites, BOS Secretary General Gustaf Hoffstedt cautions that the situation remains critical. He emphasizes that without prompt action, the integrity of the licensing system could be jeopardized.
BOS Advocates for More Flexible Regulations
While BOS calls for a wide-ranging inquiry to enhance channelization, the government currently has a more focused review underway. Investigator Marcus Isgren is expected to report in September on the potential expansion of the Gaming Act’s remit. Additionally, Sweden is considering banning gambling on credit as a measure to reduce gambling-related harm. However, industry figures believe these steps may be insufficient.
Gustaf Hoffstedt, BOS Secretary General, stresses that a broad investigation aimed at curbing the flow of players to unregulated markets would be the government’s most crucial strategy to strengthen the licensed sector.
BOS also suggests reassessing the strict prohibition on loyalty bonuses, arguing that this restriction inadvertently pushes some consumers toward offshore operators offering more attractive promotions. They advocate for more flexible rules that still protect against problem gambling. Nevertheless, lawmakers appear inclined to reinforce control over illegal gambling primarily through bans and blocking measures.
Despite the difficulties, regulators have highlighted effective actions against unlawful advertising and payment methods, which have reduced the exposure of illicit platforms. Even so, BOS insists that gradual progress is insufficient. With national elections approaching, the association stresses that safeguarding the licensed market is not only a matter of consumer protection but also a significant economic and political concern.
