Sweden Pushes for Faster Approval Processes for New Online Casino Games

Industry Seeks Streamlined Approval for Innovative Casino Games

The Swedish Trade Association for Online Gambling (BOS), representing 18 gambling companies and game creators nationwide, has formally requested that the Swedish Gambling Authority (SGA) simplify and expedite the approval process for new and innovative online casino games.

Delays Hampers Industry Progress

Following nearly a year of ongoing discussions, BOS highlighted concerns that ambiguous regulations are causing significant delays in introducing new game formats. These delays could undermine the competitiveness of licensed operators in the Swedish market.

In their formal communication to the SGA, BOS emphasized the necessity for clear regulations regarding modern game types such as crash games, arcade-style games, video bingo, socially interactive live casino experiences, and game shows.

These game formats often blend traditional casino elements with features inspired by video gaming, putting them in a regulatory gray zone that complicates classification and approval under the current legal framework.

BOS further argued that these emerging games should be explicitly covered by the definitions within the Swedish Gambling Act. Doing so would accelerate innovation while safeguarding licensed operators from losing ground to overseas competitors who are not hindered by stringent approval timelines.

Gustaf Hoffstedt, the secretary general of BOS, emphasized the importance of rapid innovation, stating that it is crucial for licensed operators to quickly offer fresh and appealing games to consumers. He expressed optimism that BOS’s dialogue with the SGA marks a positive step toward achieving this goal.

Prioritizing Consumer Protection

Consumer safety remains a central concern. A 2025 survey revealed that 72% of Swedish players cannot distinguish licensed gambling sites from unlicensed ones, highlighting the need for a strong and competitive legal gambling market.

BOS cautioned that when popular games are not accessible through licensed platforms, players may turn to unregulated black market operators.

To combat this issue, BOS has requested that the SGA officially confirm that new game types fall under current casino definitions and allow licensed operators to offer these games with appropriate regulatory oversight. Additionally, BOS has asked for the publication of FAQs to provide clarity for both operators and players.

Looking forward, Hoffstedt shared in Gambling Insider magazine his vision that innovation and regulatory measures must advance together to ensure a healthy gambling ecosystem throughout Europe over the coming years.