EGBA urges Austria to scrap online gambling monopoly for multi-licensing system

Alongside Poland, Austria is one of just two European Union member states that does not permit multi-licensing for online casino gaming. EGBA said this approach is “outdated” and “actively undermines” consumer protection, regulatory oversight and tax generation.

Setting out its concerns in more detail, EGBA raises the issue of a “thriving” black market in Austria. Here, the organisation says thousands of players gamble on unregulated websites beyond the reach of protection measures or government oversight.

EGBA added that a monopoly system leaves hundreds of millions in potential tax revenue uncollected. Research by the Austrian Association for Betting and Gambling suggests multi-licensing could generate €1 billion (£822 million/$1.04 billion) in additional tax revenue by 2030.

As such, it is calling on Austria’s government negotiators – Karl Nehammer, Andreas Babler, and Beate Meinl-Reisinger – to consider regulatory reform.

Should Austria follow the crowd?

In making the call, EGBA flagged how other countries in Europe have taken the decision to scrap their monopoly systems.

The most recent example is Finland, which is set to end its monopoly in 2026. Finland will instead adopt a licensing system, allowing more approved operators to enter the market.

Denmark and Sweden have also adopted multi-licensing for online gambling in recent years to great success. According to EGBA, after introducing multi-licensing back in 2012, online gambling market channelisation in Denmark surged from 72% to 90%.

“The evidence from across Europe is clear and compelling: multi-licensing works,” EGBA secretary general Maarten Haijer said. “It brings gambling activity into the regulated market, protects consumers, and generates significant tax revenue.

“With government negotiations underway, Austria has a golden opportunity to modernise its approach to online casino regulation and benefit from the proven regulatory approaches elsewhere. The time to act is now.”

EGBA welcomes LeoVegas as new member

In other news out of EGBA, the organisation has announced LeoVegas Group as its latest member.

LeoVegas will contribute in EGBA’s working groups and initiatives on responsible advertising, safer gambling, and the implementation of EU anti-money laundering rules.

“As a leader in our industry and with strong Nordic market presence, LeoVegas Group brings valuable expertise to our association and will enhance our collective efforts to promote a well-regulated and sustainable gambling sector in Europe,” Haijer said.

“We look forward to working closely with our new colleagues on our shared commitment to high industry standards.”