Spelpaus Self-Exclusion Registrations Exceed 100,000 in Sweden Amid Regulatory Enhancements

The Swedish gambling regulator Spelinspektionen has achieved a significant milestone with the national self-exclusion system, Spelpaus, surpassing 100,000 registered users. Since its launch in January 2019, alongside the advent of regulated online gambling in Sweden, Spelpaus has played a pivotal role in promoting responsible gambling practices.

Remarkable progress in Sweden’s gambling sector! Over 100,000 individuals have now registered with Spelpaus, the country’s central self-exclusion system, showcasing Sweden’s dedication to responsible gambling.

Spelpaus, operated by Spelinspektionen, allows individuals to voluntarily exclude themselves from all licensed online gambling platforms in Sweden. All Swedish online gambling operators are mandated to integrate their databases with Spelpaus, ensuring self-excluded users are barred from accessing gambling products and do not receive marketing communications.

The effectiveness of Spelpaus is a testament to Sweden’s commitment to minimizing gambling harm. With the revamped Spelpaus 2.0, the system now boasts enhanced functionalities, including improved ID verification and clearer guidance for self-exclusion and family referrals. The increased registrations, up by 25 percent from last year, reflect the system’s growing acceptance and effectiveness.

Keep an eye on Sweden’s evolving gambling landscape. The ongoing enhancements to Spelpaus and other regulatory initiatives are reshaping responsible gambling practices in the country, setting a benchmark for other nations.

In addition to the success of Spelpaus, the Swedish government has announced plans to further support Spelinspektionen. The 2024 budget proposes an additional SEK10.8 million (€906,000) allocation, increasing to SEK15.6 million in 2025 and SEK18.6 million in 2026, to aid the regulator in tackling the unlicensed market. The government expects Spelinspektionen to develop a closer working relationship with Sweden’s Financial Supervisory Authority, leveraging this funding for maximum impact.

Furthermore, the government has proposed an increase in the tax rate on gross gambling revenue, from 18 percent to 22 percent starting July 1, 2024. This change, expected to generate an additional SEK540 million (€45.5 million) in annual tax revenue, is based on the belief that the market has stabilized since the opening of regulated online gambling.

These developments in Sweden’s gambling sector, from the bolstering of Spelpaus to enhanced regulatory funding and tax adjustments, indicate a robust and proactive approach to managing and evolving the gambling landscape, prioritizing both industry growth and responsible gambling.