Sweden to be taken to court over lack of online gambling regulation
The Swedish government has come under fire from the European Commission for its stance on online gambling.
The Commission believes that Sweden is failing to comply with EU laws, and has referred it to the European Court of Justice.
While online gambling and shop betting are legal in Sweden, the market is dominated by the state-run monopoly Svenska Spel, with other companies operating in a black market.
It is felt by the Commission that EU Competition Laws are being breached, and that the Swedish government is not doing enough to regulate the industry.
A statement released by the Commission read: “Sweden is referred to the Court of Justice for imposing restrictions on the organisation and promotion of online betting services in a way which is inconsistent with EU law.”
The European Gaming and Betting Association has praised the Commission for its stance, calling it “a breakthrough decision”, as it is the first time a member state has been taken to the court in Brussels.
It is not the first time that Sweden has faced being reprimanded for its handling of online gambling, as it was asked to amend its betting laws in 2007 before also being warned in November 2013.
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