Finland has wrapped up its consultations on four proposed decrees related to the new Gambling Act. Key recommendations from the proposals include limiting slot rounds to 2.5 seconds, banning autoplay features, and implementing a maximum stake of 20 Euros for slot players. Additionally, gamblers will receive a reminder every 15 minutes during their play sessions.
These draft decrees are essential for Finland as it transitions to a licensed gambling market. The regulations are designed to impose restrictions on slot rounds and autoplay, alongside the compulsory reminders aimed at promoting responsible gambling. For players under the age of 25, there is also a proposal to cap their stakes at half the limits set for older players, which brings their maximum stake to 20 Euros. These changes are expected to significantly limit the availability of bonus-buy options within the gaming framework.
A broad array of stakeholders participated in the consultations, offering feedback from operators, suppliers, industry associations, attorneys, public health agencies, and government entities. Companies including Hippos ATG, Play North, Veikkaus, Paf, Wildz Group, FDJ United, Betsson Group, Bragg, Games Global, Playtech, and Evolution expressed their concerns regarding the proposed regulations.
On the other hand, government-related organizations and public health advocates took a more proactive stance. Institutions such as the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health, the THL, EHYT, Peluuri, Sosped Foundation, A-klinikkasäätiö, and the harm assessment group from the ministry supported the recommendations but urged for even stricter measures. They suggested lower limits for stakes and losses, a slower tempo for slot games, mandatory breaks for players, clearer information regarding gambling expenses, and further curbs on high-risk gaming traits.
The outcome of these regulations will be pivotal for Finland as it strives to balance the appeal of its newly licensed market with robust consumer protection. The feedback from the consultation highlights a central challenge: implementing effective measures that will mitigate gambling harm while also ensuring that the regulated market remains competitive, thereby reducing the allure of the unregulated markets.
