The Spanish Dependency Network (UNAD) advocates for a prohibition on promotional material for gambling and favors stricter regulation of loot boxes!
The Spanish Helping Hand for Addiction Issues (AAD) has urged Pablo Bustinduy, the relevant minister in the Spanish administration, to enforce a total ban on gambling advertisements. Moreover, AAD has requested clarification on the oversight of loot boxes in video games.
Bridging the gap with alcohol and tobacco suggested
Close to the World Day of Responsible Gambling on February 17, 2024, AAD reiterated its call for a full-blown prohibition on gambling advertisements [Spanish article], as noted by the Spanish newspaper The Vanguard.
Although advertising for gambling promotions in Spain currently faces substantive limitations and shuns collaborations with famous figures, AAD still detects loopholes for operators to publicize their services.
The network advocates that gambling should be regarded under the law similarly to alcohol or tobacco, for which an outright advertising ban applies in Spain. This stance is justified due to the potential for addiction associated with gambling and its potential strain on healthcare systems.
AAD has also voiced its views on the contentious international debate regarding loot boxes in video games, which has spurred fresh interest in Germany lately. The network argues that such mechanisms in video games may foster addiction concerns in the long term and demands substantial curbs, without providing specifics.
General advertising ban for gambling sparks controversy
This topic of restricting or completely eliminating gambling advertising is a subject of discussion in numerous countries, including Spain. The opposing viewpoints often stand far apart to the extent that no productive dialogue ensues, as observed by marketing expert Dr. Andreas Blaue.
For instance, the Dutch parliament now needs to decide on implementing a complete ban, while the decision in Italy has already been confirmed for a gambling ban.
The industry frequently suggests participating actively in the adjustment of legislations. The main argument put forth by the industry leaders is that a full-scale ban on gambling advertisements, coupled with other regulations, could inadvertently bolster the black market.
How will Pablo Bustinduy respond?
As of now, no media reports indicate Pablo Bustinduy's stance on AAD's demands or his proposed strategies. Bustinduy has only assumed the ministerial post since November 2023.
His predecessor Alberto Garzón was well-known for his stance against gambling. Whether Bustinduy shares Garzón's antipathy or will exhibit greater flexibility in negotiations remains to be seen at this stage.
In response to AAD's escalating concerns, numerous news outlets have been covering this topic extensively. For example, the Spanish news source, La Razon, reported that AAD is urging minister Pablo Bustinduy to consider a total ban on gambling advertisements, following their requests for clarification on loot box regulations in video games.
Furthermore, the international news agency Reuters reported that AAD is advocating for a stricter approach to gambling advertisements, comparing it to the existing bans on advertising for alcohol and tobacco, due to the potential for addiction and associated healthcare costs.
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