Spain fines online gambling operators €65M in H1 2024

Are you aware of the recent crackdown in Spain’s online gambling sector? The Directorate General for the Regulation of Gambling (DGOJ) has imposed substantial fines totaling €65 million on 15 operators in the first half of 2024. This decisive action underscores Spain’s unwavering commitment to maintaining a secure and regulated gambling environment.

Spain Intensifies Crackdown on Unlicensed Gambling Operators with €65 Million in Fines

Key Points:

1. DGOJ sanctions 15 online gambling operators in H1 2024.
2. €65 million in fines issued for severe regulatory violations.
3. 13 operators banned from operating in Spain for two years.

In the first half of 2024, the DGOJ sanctioned 15 online betting and gaming operators for severe regulatory violations. Of these, 13 were classified as “very serious” offenses, each resulting in a €5 million fine and a two-year ban from operating in Spain. This enforcement aligns with the Gaming Regulation Act (LRJ), which mandates stringent penalties for such infractions.

Targeting Unlicensed Foreign Operators

The “very serious” offenses primarily involved unlicensed foreign online gaming operators attempting to penetrate the Spanish market without proper authorization. The sanctioned entities include Alimanieri, Bigwins Games Tech, Games & More, Gladiator Holding, Golden Genie, Goldenlion, Goldenpharaoh, Interactive Pro, Loveca Sino, Mountberg, R.Bostock Enterprises, Rougeca Sino, and Stars Cream. Operating without a license in Spain constitutes a clear breach of the LRJ, warranting these substantial penalties.

Addressing Violations Among Licensed Operators

In addition to unlicensed entities, the DGOJ identified two “serious” violations involving licensed operators during the same period. Codere and Electraworks were fined a total of €325,000 for breaches of specific regulatory provisions. Codere received a €100,000 fine for a non-compliant Facebook advertisement, while Electraworks was fined €225,000 for multiple infractions, including delayed submission of technical requirement reports.

Transparency and Public Disclosure

Since the amendment of the LRJ in July 2021, the DGOJ has upheld a policy of transparency by publicly disclosing administrative sanctions against gaming operators. This measure allows for public scrutiny and reinforces the integrity of Spain’s gambling regulatory framework. To date, the ministry has published 154 sanctions, with fines exceeding €398 million.

Comparative Analysis with Previous Years

In 2023, the DGOJ imposed substantial penalties for similar violations, particularly in the second half of the year, when 17 operators faced sanctions totaling over €81 million.

The consistent enforcement actions highlight the DGOJ’s ongoing efforts to uphold regulatory standards and protect consumers from unlicensed and non-compliant operators.

Conclusion

Spain’s DGOJ continues to demonstrate a firm stance against unlicensed and non-compliant online gambling operators. The €65 million in fines issued in the first half of 2024 reflect the regulator’s dedication to maintaining a safe and regulated gambling environment. These actions serve as a clear warning to operators about the consequences of violating Spain’s stringent gambling regulations.