Italy Prepares for Gambling Regulation Overhaul to Boost Legal Sector
Planned reforms to Italy’s gambling regulatory framework aim to bolster the legal gaming industry through new tenders for online and Lotto licenses, alongside broader regulatory updates to align national policies with European standards.
ADM to Open Tenders for Online Gaming and Lotto
Roberto Alesse, director general of the Customs and Monopolies Agency (ADM), confirmed in an interview with La Verità that public tenders for online gaming and Lotto licenses are on the horizon.
These tenders are expected to strengthen the legal gaming sector by providing clear opportunities for licensed operators.
Alesse emphasized ADM’s critical role in combatting illicit activities, including preventing mafia infiltration into the gambling market, and offering technical guidance to the Ministry of Economy in crafting effective regulations.
Gambling Advertising Ban Still in Effect
One significant aspect of Italy’s regulatory environment is the ongoing ban on gambling advertising introduced in 2018 under the Dignity Decree.
This legislation prohibits gambling ads, sponsorships, and promotional partnerships with sports teams in an effort to address problem gambling and related social issues.
While Alesse acknowledged the benefits of such measures, he also stressed the importance of supporting the legal gambling sector to avoid inadvertently driving consumers toward illegal operators.
Aligning with European Standards
Deputy Minister Maurizio Leo is leading efforts to ensure Italy’s gambling regulations adhere to both national and European requirements.
Alesse highlighted Leo’s work with the State-Regions Conference to develop consistent legislation across the country, which would streamline processes and enhance compliance.
A harmonized framework is expected to boost Italy’s competitiveness in the regulated European market.
Balancing Regulation with Market Growth
Italy’s regulatory overhaul aims to increase tax revenue by fostering a robust legal gambling market while addressing concerns about addiction and unlawful activities.
However, there is growing recognition across Europe, including in the UK, that overly stringent measures on licensed operators may inadvertently benefit unregulated black-market providers. Italy’s approach will likely serve as a test case for balancing regulatory integrity with market sustainability.
Aiming for Economic Benefits
Streamlined regulations and upcoming tenders are set to attract significant investment, boosting tax revenue and providing economic benefits.
As Italy implements these changes, the country’s legal gambling sector is poised for growth, with the potential to become a stronger and more resilient part of the economy.
