Italy Expected to Introduce Lotto and Online Gaming Tenders

Planned changes to the gambling regulatory framework in Italy are expected to strengthen the sector, helping legal gambling grow with tenders for online and Lotto licenses expected soon.

ADM to Launch Tenders for Online Gaming, Lotto Soon

That’s the take of Roberto Alesse, the director general of the country’s Customs and Monopolies Agency (ADM), who was recently interviewed by the local media outlet, La Verità. Currently, the Agency plays a strategic role in combatting unlawful activities such as smuggling, helping prevent the infiltration of mafia into different structures, including the gaming vertical.

What’s expected by potential bidders are upcoming public gaming tenders for online games and Lotto. Per Alesse, the bids for online gaming are expected to launch soon, followed by the tenders for Lotto games. The executive spoke about the key role of the ADM which offers technical support to the Ministry of Economy when it comes to drafting rules and policies that combat unlawful activities.

Gambling Ads Ban Remains in Place, for the Moment

A major part of the changes in regulations in Italy involves streamlining of the rules on a national and European level. Alesse pointed to the relentless efforts of deputy minister Maurizio Leo, outlining that he does an “excellent job” and continues to collaborate with the State-Regions Conference for the development of a “homogeneous legislation across the national territory” that also adheres to the Europe’s requirements.

Several years ago, in 2018, Italy introduced the so-called Dignity Decree. Addressing a number of challenges at the time, the Decree focused on preventing gambling addiction, as well as other economic and social issues. Under the law, Italy prohibited gambling advertising, enforcing a blanket ban applicable for land-based and online ads, as well as prohibiting gambling sponsorships with sports teams.

It is yet to be seen whether major parts of the overhaul will affect gambling advertising. Still, Alesse’s position is that the legal gambling sector is better to be supported as other actions may ultimately benefit unlawful gambling providers.

That’s not specific to Italy as many other major markets across Europe, including the United Kingdom, consider that draconian regulations applicable to the legal gambling sector may push some consumers to the black market.

Italy’s goal to streamline its regulatory framework is ultimately expected to help boost tax revenue, which in turn would benefit its economy.