Spain: Overview of Regulations for the Growing Online Gambling Market

[RevenueLab]

In 1986, Spain joined the EU, which significantly impacted the country's economic development. The gambling industry began to grow, accounting for about 3% of Spain's total production. Revenue from casinos, betting houses, and even winnings exceeding €2500 are subject to taxation.

Spain has a gambling law (Law 13/2011) that allows online gaming and provides for its regulation. Operators must obtain special licenses from the Directorate General for the the Spanish Gambling Commission (DGOJ), comply with security measures, and protect minors.

There is a distinction between the regulated and unregulated markets. The former includes licensed platforms that ensure user safety, while the latter consists of illegal operators without oversight, increasing risks for players.

Requirements for Online Casinos in Spain
Licenses are divided into three types: betting, contests, and games. Key requirements for operators include:ё
• Compliance with technical standards.
• Development of tools for responsible gaming.
• Age verification (18+).
• Payment of taxes.
• Conducting reporting and audits.

Regulation of Online Casinos in Different Regions of Spain

The country has unified legislation for iGaming, although regions may have their own licensing authorities:
• Catalonia: Gambling is regulated by the the Comissió de Control de Joc (DGTJ).
• Basque Country: The Eusko Jaurlaritzaren Jokoaren Araubidea (DJEGV) has the authority to issue licenses.
• Madrid: The Department of the Interior, Justice, and Security and the General Directorate of Gambling oversee the industry.
• Andalusia: The Comisión de Juego de Andalucía (CJA) is responsible for ensuring compliance with local laws.

Promotion of Gambling

Since early November last year, Royal Decree 958/2020 has been in effect to protect minors. Following an appeal review, some measures were annulled:
• Companies are allowed to conduct advertising campaigns targeting players registered for less than a month.
• The restriction on using celebrities in promotions has been lifted.
• Advertising on video platforms is permitted.
• The ban on sports sponsorship in gambling continues.
Consequences for non-compliance include fines, suspension of advertising, lawsuits, and revocation of licenses.

Ways to Comply with the Law:
1. Providing information about brands.
2. Avoiding advertising aimed at minors.
3. Conducting regular compliance checks.

Thus, growth prospects for online gambling in Spain are opening up. The online casino sector has increased its presence by 17%, while online betting has risen by 31%, accounting for 42.9% of total gambling revenue.

An increase in revenue and gamer activity is anticipated, strengthening Spain's position in the gaming industry. Partners are advised to pay attention to this country, as it has transparent legislation and it is relatively easy to comply with advertising rules.


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