Sweden has initiated an inquiry aimed at developing new regulations to combat youth gambling by enhancing marketing restrictions. Chief Legal Officer Zandra Milton will lead the investigation into gambling behaviors among young people and assess the current marketing practices related to gambling. The findings are expected to be submitted to the Ministry of Health and Social Affairs by February 29, 2028.
Minister of Financial Markets Niklas Wyman highlighted the necessity of establishing a secure gambling environment, advocating for increased protective measures for individuals at risk. Minister of Health Elisabeth Lann pointed out a concerning increase in risky gambling cases among young men, while Minister of Gender Equality Nina Larsson noted the significant prevalence of gambling problems among this demographic.
The inquiry will explore the potential need for gambling operators to institute financial controls and time limits for younger players. It will also examine the role of gambling elements in video games and assess whether further regulation is warranted.
According to the Ministry, the investigator will balance the proposed protective measures against the possibility that gambling with unlicensed operators could rise. Such gambling activities fall outside the protections granted by Swedish regulations.
Additionally, the inquiry intends to compare Sweden's regulatory framework with those of other nations to identify effective strategies for reducing youth gambling.
This initiative comes on the heels of criticism from Sweden’s National Audit Office, which characterized government actions against problem gambling as inadequate in February 2026. The office called for enhanced practical guidance and better coordination between responsible authorities.
