Spain Solidifies Position as a European Leader in Gambling Regulation

Spain Takes a Leading Role in European Gambling Oversight

Spain has recently asserted itself as a key player in shaping gambling regulations across Europe. The nation hosted the International Gaming Congress, highlighting its ambitions and expanding influence within the European Union’s regulatory landscape. This event brought together senior officials, industry operators, academics, and experts from around the world to engage in dialogues about the responsibilities and future directions of the gambling sector.

Lawmakers Address New Challenges in Gambling Policy

Pablo Bustinduy, Spain’s Minister of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs, and the 2030 Agenda, inaugurated the congress by emphasizing the importance of protecting minors and preventing early exposure to gambling products. His ministry is committed to promoting an environment where gambling can be enjoyed without jeopardizing public health or causing harm to individuals.

Andrés Barragán, Secretary General of Consumer Affairs and Gaming, adopted a firm approach, outlining recent legislative measures passed by Spain’s Congress of Deputies. These include a total ban on welcome bonuses for new players and a strict requirement that all online gaming payments must be processed using bank cards registered under the same name as the gaming account holder.

The congress also highlighted contributions from academic researchers focusing on behavioral patterns and harm-prevention techniques related to gambling. Their work fosters a collaborative dialogue between academia and the gambling industry, aiming to balance consumer protection with economic sustainability through informed strategies.

Importance of Cross-Border Cooperation in Gambling Regulation

Spain’s commitment to advancing gambling regulation was further demonstrated in a meeting held on November 12 by the Directorate General for Gambling Regulation (DGOJ). Representatives from Germany, France, Austria, the UK, Italy, Spain, and Portugal convened to strengthen international cooperation in combating illegal online gambling, a challenge intensified by rapid technological advancements.

Officials noted that unauthorized operators frequently evade local laws, exploiting consumers and undermining regulated markets. The rise of illicit advertising, particularly across social media and online platforms, complicates enforcement by blurring distinctions between licensed and unlicensed providers.

The group agreed to exchange intelligence on illegal operators, collaborate on filing complaints to remove illicit advertisements from digital platforms, and share best practices to enhance detection and enforcement efforts. Furthermore, a voluntary regulatory framework for regulators and operators, endorsed by national standardization bodies, is set to be launched in early 2026 to support these initiatives.