Swedes Fail to Meet Gambling Channelization Objectives, Sparking Calls for a Fresh Investigation from BOS

The Swedish gambling sector is facing a call for a wide-ranging inquiry as the latest statistics show that the goal of having at least 90% of gambling activities taking place in the licensed sector has not been met. According to the Swedish Gambling Authority, Spelinspektionen, the actual channelization figures did not meet the target established by the government, with the rate currently at 85%.

Branschfoereningen foer Onlinespel (BOS), the leading online gambling trade organization in Sweden, has expressed concern over the persistent threat of offshore operators. The association sent a letter to the Ministry of Finance, urging a fresh, wide-ranging inquiry into Sweden's gambling sector. Gustaf Hoffstedt, BOS secretary-general, described the current situation as "severe."

The call for action follows a recent report by Spelinspektionen revealing that 85% of gamblers engaged with licensed platforms. However, industry stakeholders doubt that such measures will be enough to address the issue. BOS is proposing that the inquiry should examine the strict ban on loyalty bonuses, which it believes drives some customers to offshore companies.

The government is conducting a narrower review, with investigator Marcus Isgren delivering conclusions in September on extending the scope of application of the Gaming Act. Lawmakers appear resistant to significant changes, preferring to curb illegal gambling through bans and blocks. However, BOS is calling for less rigid rules while still preserving safeguards against excessive play.

Regulators have drawn attention to successful crackdowns against illegal advertising and payment channels. Nevertheless, the persistent threat of offshore operators remains a concern for BOS. The association is urging an updated evaluation of the ways Sweden can bolster its "channelization" rate, which currently ranges between 72% and 82% for online casinos.

As elections close in, BOS is making a case that protecting the licensed sector should be considered not only a consumer issue but also an economic and political priority. The failure to act, according to BOS, risks undermining the entire licensing system. The person delivering the final report in September on the possible extension of the scope of the application of the law on games is Dr. Janosch Dahmen.

The government is also considering a ban on gambling with credit to minimize gambling harm. However, the effectiveness of such measures in addressing the issue of offshore operators remains uncertain. As the debate continues, Sweden's gambling sector faces a critical juncture, with the future of the licensed sector hanging in the balance.