Italy’s ADM Unveils 2025-2027 Plan to Reform Gambling Industry

Regulatory Overhaul to Strengthen Consumer Protection

The new plan builds on the March 2024 Reorganisation of Gambling Decree, which marked a significant step toward restructuring the Italian gambling market.

ADM aims to reinforce consumer protection, particularly for vulnerable players, while increasing transparency in licensing and concession processes.

The agency also emphasizes that its mission extends beyond financial regulation.

According to ADM, the plan seeks to improve economic and social well-being, safeguard public health, and prevent illicit activities linked to gambling.

Combating Black Market Gambling and Financial Crimes

One of ADM’s primary objectives is to reduce the influence of fraud and organized crime in the gambling sector. The plan introduces a stricter licensing process, improved financial monitoring, and anti-fraud measures to curb illegal gambling operations.

Currently, the black market is estimated to cost Italy €1 billion ($1.09 billion) in lost revenue annually.

ADM also plans to enhance its AML protocols in line with EU directives. The agency will collaborate with the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) and the Financial Police to track suspicious financial transactions and detect irregular activity within the industry. A real-time centralized monitoring system will be introduced to oversee player transactions, operator behavior, and overall market compliance.

Technological Advancements to Improve Oversight

Starting in 2025, ADM will double the number of inspections for both online and land-based gambling operators. It will also require enhanced self-declarations from license holders and enforce a 25-day concession fee payment deadline to ensure timely compliance.

To support these efforts, the agency plans to hire 2,400 new employees and invest in AI-driven compliance tools. These technologies will improve licensing procedures, detect problem gambling behaviors, and identify fraud risks.

Additionally, ADM is launching an open data portal that will provide public and industry stakeholders with greater access to licensing decisions, compliance reports, and enforcement actions.

“New tools will assist in combating irregular activities and administrative and tax non-compliance, allowing for constant verification of the work of the gaming sector entities.” – ADM report

Potential Return of Gambling Sponsorships in Sports

The ADM’s reforms coincide with ongoing discussions about lifting Italy’s gambling sponsorship ban in sports. If approved, the change could financially benefit Italian football clubs, which have long advocated for its revision.

However, policymakers are also considering additional consumer protection measures to address the potential risks associated with increased gambling exposure.