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Sweden's Gambling Laws Face Overhaul After Market Failures

Sweden's 2019 gambling reforms fell short—now, 18 bold proposals aim to curb harm and shut down unlicensed operators. Will regulators act in time?

The image shows a blue and white logo with the words "Gamblers vs 28" written on it, along with a...
The image shows a blue and white logo with the words "Gamblers vs 28" written on it, along with a few playing cards and a stick. The logo is likely associated with a gambling game, suggesting that the image is meant to represent the differences between the two sides of the game.

Sweden's Gambling Laws Face Overhaul After Market Failures

A new report from Svenska Spel has called for major changes to Sweden's gambling laws. The review highlights ongoing issues since the market was re-regulated in 2019, with current rules failing to protect vulnerable groups effectively. The company has put forward 18 proposals to strengthen oversight and reduce harm.

Sweden opened its gambling market to competition in 2019, ending a long-standing state monopoly. However, the shift has not met expectations. The share of gambling taking place through licensed operators—known as the channelisation rate—has stayed below the 90% target, reaching just 85% in 2024 and fluctuating between 74% and 85% in the third quarter of 2025. Offshore casinos, especially in the online sector, continue to draw players away from regulated sites.

The report, led by Marcus Isgren, identifies three key areas needing reform: better safeguards for young people, stricter measures against illegal casinos, and a risk-based classification system for games. It also warns that women and younger players face higher risks. Women tend to develop gambling problems more quickly and often experience related health issues, while young people are exposed to dangers like lootboxes, skin betting, and unregulated streaming on platforms such as Twitch and Kick. Anna Johnson, CEO of Svenska Spel, stressed the urgency of the situation. She called for closer cooperation between gambling firms, regulators, and lawmakers to address these challenges. The report further recommends tighter marketing restrictions for online casino games, which carry a higher risk of harm than other forms of betting.

The proposed reforms aim to improve Sweden's gambling regulations by targeting illegal operators, protecting vulnerable groups, and adjusting marketing rules. If implemented, the changes could reshape how the market operates and reduce harm. The next steps depend on how authorities and industry stakeholders respond to the report's recommendations.

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