Operators begin rush to secure first Swedish licences

Tombola and Betsson are among the first operators to have applied for a new Swedish online gambling licence ahead of the market’s liberalisation next year, EGR Intel has learned.

The Swedish Gambling Authority (Lotteriinspektionen) officially opened up the licence application process today (1 August), with the market set to open up to licensed international operators on 1 January 2019.

According to information provided to EGR by Lotteriinspektionen, nearly 20 operators have applied for a licence so far, including: Betsson, tombola, Betclic Group, Global Gaming, Videoslots together with monopoly operators ATG and Svenska Spel.

In a statement detailing the Betsson application, Pontus Lindwall, CEO called the licence application “a milestone for both Betsson and the gaming industry. We look forward to being able to operate in our home market as a recognised operator.”

Global Gaming CEO Joacim Möller commented: “Sweden is Global Gaming and Ninja Casino’s premier market, so it is of the utmost importance for us to be able to continue operating,”

In a recent interview with EGR Compliance, Lotteriinspektionen CEO Camilla Rosenberg said the dates from which licences will be valid will “depend partly on the quality of the applications” and when they are received.

She added: “As part of this process, we will make a comprehensive assessment of both the application and the company behind the application.

“Applicants will be assessed through a combination of government and Lotteriinspektionen regulations, which will include responsible gambling measures, customer protection and strong security.”

Read EGR Compliance’s full interview with the Swedish Gambling Authority here.