Sweden has issued licenses to nine additional iGaming suppliers

The Swedish gaming regulator, Spelinspektionen, is intensifying its commitment to a well-regulated iGaming sector by issuing nine new supplier licenses. As Sweden’s mandatory licensing for iGaming suppliers comes into force on July 1, Spelinspektionen aims to strengthen compliance, streamline operations, and protect consumers by restricting unlicensed gaming services. With key players like Yggdrasil, Relax Gaming, and Thunderkick now licensed, this regulatory milestone underscores Sweden’s dedication to a secure and transparent iGaming environment. Discover how these new measures are reshaping Sweden’s gaming industry and preparing it for a more responsible future.

Swedish Regulator Spelinspektionen Issues Nine New Supplier Licenses Ahead of Mandatory July Deadline

The Swedish Gaming Authority (Spelinspektionen) has issued an additional nine supplier licenses as part of its new iGaming supplier licensing regime, which will become mandatory on July 1, 2024. Launched to bolster Sweden’s regulated gaming sector, the licensing initiative is designed to ensure that only authorized providers serve Swedish players, protecting the market from unlicensed and potentially harmful operators.

Spelinspektionen opened the application process for these new licenses on March 1, 2024, enabling suppliers to apply in advance of the deadline. The new regime mandates that all iGaming suppliers operating within Sweden must obtain a five-year license. As part of the approval process, each applicant is required to pay a SEK120,000 application fee, which aligns with Spelinspektionen’s goal of creating a self-sustaining regulatory system.

This latest batch of approvals includes a mix of prominent suppliers and emerging providers. Among those granted licenses are well-known entities like EveryMatrix Software, Yggdrasil, Relax Gaming, and Thunderkick. Thunderkick’s license notably includes both its Swedish and Maltese operations, underscoring the company’s commitment to regulatory compliance across multiple jurisdictions. Additionally, Arland Gesellschaft Fur Informationstechnologie Mbh, Hacksaw Operations, and Hacksaw Studios have also received licenses, expanding the list of approved providers.

Key Highlights of Sweden’s New iGaming Supplier Licensing Regime

1. Strengthening Market Regulation and Consumer Protection
   The new supplier licensing requirements form a critical part of Sweden’s strategy to channel players toward the regulated gaming market. By licensing approved suppliers, Spelinspektionen aims to mitigate the risk of unlicensed services that could undermine player safety. Licensed suppliers are restricted from offering their services to unlicensed operators, helping to draw consumers back to legal platforms where they are protected by Swedish regulations.
2. A Transparent and Regulated Gaming Environment
   Spelinspektionen’s licensing initiative emphasizes transparency and accountability in the Swedish gaming sector. The regulator has so far received 60 applications, indicating strong industry support. With prominent names like Yggdrasil and Relax Gaming leading the charge, the industry is demonstrating its commitment to compliance and ethical practices. As more suppliers receive approval, Sweden’s gaming landscape becomes increasingly aligned with international regulatory standards, strengthening the country’s reputation as a leader in responsible gaming.
3. Industry Reactions: Support and Skepticism
   While the new regime has received widespread industry support, there is cautious skepticism among some stakeholders. Gustaf Hoffstedt, Secretary-General of Swedish trade association Branscheföreningen för Onlinespel (BOS), has voiced concerns about the system’s effectiveness in reducing unregulated market activity. Hoffstedt suggests that while the licensing model promotes compliance, it may struggle to fully contain the outflow of players to unlicensed sites. Nonetheless, the licensing regime is expected to help reduce the presence of unregulated operators by restricting suppliers to the regulated sector, a key step toward curbing illegal play.

A Long-Term Commitment to Sustainable Gaming

Spelinspektionen’s supplier licensing system reflects a broader commitment to creating a sustainable and well-regulated iGaming environment in Sweden. By regulating suppliers and establishing compliance protocols, the regulator aims to build a market that prioritizes player safety and industry accountability. The new licensing structure is expected to encourage suppliers to strengthen their operations, positioning Sweden’s iGaming industry as one that values both business growth and ethical standards.

Looking forward, the mandatory compliance deadline of July 1 sets a clear timeline for operators and suppliers to align with Spelinspektionen’s requirements. This regulation is not only a response to consumer protection needs but also a strategic move to combat unregulated activity in the Swedish market, ensuring that the sector remains competitive, reliable, and sustainable in the long term.

With the issuance of these new supplier licenses, Spelinspektionen is actively shaping Sweden’s iGaming sector into a safer, more regulated environment. As the July 1 compliance deadline approaches, both established and emerging suppliers are stepping up to meet the standards set by the regulator, signaling a new era of accountability. While some challenges remain, Spelinspektionen’s licensing regime is a significant step toward creating a market that prioritizes player protection, ethical business practices, and sustainable growth. This evolving framework sets a powerful precedent, positioning Sweden as a model of responsible iGaming regulation in Europe.