Spain opens consultation process on exchange and slots
Regulator encourages contributions from industry as to whether it should introduce new products to dot.es markets - contributions need to be submitted within 21 days.
Spanish regulatory authority La Dirección General de Ordenación del Juego (DGOJ) has announced its intention to open a consultation aimed at deciding whether or not to regulated online slots and/or exchange betting.
The body has explained that the introduction of such products will be dependent on their ability to meet certain criteria on matters such as the prevention of problem and underage gambling and the protection of player funds.
It has invited “Examples and empirical evidence of best international practices in relation to this type of game,” as well as contributions offering “An analysis of costs and benefits, quantifying their impact, and an assessment of the potential direct and indirect effects on society as a whole.”
The DGOJ said in a statement: “If it is not deemed necessary to regulate any of these games, we would like equivalent alternatives for achieving the regulatory objectives above.”
Earlier this year the regulator revealed that it had entered into discussions with licensed operators, consumer groups and the Spanish government over the possibility of dot.es slots, following a successful launch of the product in Italy last December.
The intervening period has seen the DGOJ issue draft bingo amendments which could potentially see licensed operators expand their bingo offering beyond the currently allowed 90-ball, 80-ball and 75-ball variants provided they alert the regulator to any such developments in advance.
Following the publication of the consultation notice on the DGOJ website, respondents have been given 21 days to make their submissions regarding the consultation process, after which the results will be analysed for 45 days. Only then will the DGOJ rule on whether further steps will be taken or whether the proposals will be shelved for the time being.