Norway Sees Further Decline in Offshore Gambling Market
A new report from Norway’s Lotteritilsynet shows that the offshore gambling market continues to shrink, with more players turning to domestic licensed operators. However, the growth in local gambling participation among young adults raises concerns.
Increase in Domestic Gambling Activity
Data for 2024 show that around 2 million players engaged in online gambling with Norsk Tipping at least once, compared to 1.8 million in 2023. Norsk Rikstoto also experienced an increase in its player base. Turnover from games offered in direct competition with offshore operators rose from NOK 2.6 billion in 2023 to NOK 3.1 billion in 2024. Instaspill saw the most notable growth among these offerings.
Lotteritilsynet’s annual Responsibility and Channelization Report to the Ministry of Culture indicates that offshore operators’ net turnover dropped from NOK 1.6 billion in 2023 to NOK 1.3 billion in 2024. The market share for offshore companies in high-risk games declined as well, falling from 29–35 percent in 2023 to between 22–28 percent in 2024.
Tore Bell, Department Director at Lotteritilsynet, emphasized that channelization efforts are approaching a limit:
“Channelization of players, meaning how many players monopoly operators can attract from the illegal market, is nearing a point where further gains will require very specialized measures.”
Risky Trends Among Young Players
The report highlights a concerning trend involving young adults aged 18–25. Authorities observe that many in this age group are engaging in high-risk gambling behavior, similar to that of experienced players.
“A side effect of strong channelization is that monopoly operators gain more players. We note that many young players are choosing the highest-risk games,” Bell stated.
In response, Lotteritilsynet recommends that Norsk Tipping modify its casino games and online gaming products to make them less risky and less accessible to younger players.
“We believe Norsk Tipping must work very proactively to curb the extent of gambling among this age group.”
The full findings have been presented to the Ministry of Culture and communicated to Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto for further review and implementation of recommended measures.