Government investigators to review Swedish gambling law

(PRESS RELEASE) -- The Swedish gambling market should be characterized by a strong consumer protection. Unlicensed actors need to be able to be shut out in a more efficient way than is possible with today's regulation. Therefore, a government investigator should now review how the scope of the Gambling Act can be expanded, and develop proposals that stop unlicensed players in the Swedish gaming market. For example, it may be about changing the so-called directional criterion that determines whether an online game requires a license in Sweden.

All gambling for money should be done by responsible, reliable and controllable players. Gambling among unlicensed players carries risks to the individual consumer, and undermines gambling legislation and makes it less effective. Criminals also leverage unlicensed gambling activities for money laundering and match-fixing. A review of the scope of the Gambling Act will contribute to the exclusion of more unlicensed players from the Swedish gaming market, including by applying for the licensing requirement for more games.

“We’re going to stop rogue gaming companies that use vulnerable consumers. We do this by changing the game law so that it becomes more appropriate. This is one of the single most important measures for a safer and healthier gambling market,” says Finance Minister Niklas Wykman.

An investigator will now, among other things, analyse and consider how the scope of the gaming law can be clarified and extended, for example by amending the directional criterion.

Marcus Isgren, Chairman and Head of the General Complaints Board, has been appointed letter investigator. The assignment shall be reported no later than 17 September 2025.