The Spanish Gambling Policy Council convened a plenary session to assess the nation’s gambling landscape. Chaired by Andrés Barragán Urbiola, Secretary General of Consumer Affairs and Gambling, the meeting included representatives from various regional and local governments, as well as the central government.
A key outcome of the session was the unanimous approval of the 2024 Gambling Activity Report. This comprehensive document, designed to provide a transparent overview of gambling activities in Spain, will be accessible to public authorities, industry operators, and the general public. This marks a significant achievement, representing the first such report to garner unanimous support from all relevant stakeholders.
## Addressing Online Gambling and Slot Machine Regulation
The meeting also scrutinized a proposal aimed at strengthening regulations surrounding online gambling and slot machines. This proposal, recently endorsed by the Joint Commission for the Study of Addiction Problems, aims to introduce tighter controls within the sector.
Furthermore, the Directorate General for the Regulation of Gambling (DGOJ) presented findings from a study on underage participation in land-based gambling. While the report itself was presented, a consensus on future collaborative efforts with external organizations remained elusive.
## Technological Advancements and Regulatory Updates
The Council expressed its support for the Cooper platform, a collaborative initiative designed to enhance information sharing and coordination among different governmental bodies involved in gambling regulation.
The session also addressed recent amendments to key regulatory decrees. These updates encompassed modifications to Royal Decree 1614/2011 (gambling licenses and registrations), Law 13/2011 (joint deposit limits for players), and Royal Decree 176/2023 (promotion of safer gaming practices). These revisions aim to modernize the regulatory framework and enhance player protection.
## Ongoing Commitment to Responsible Gambling
It is important to note that the Gambling Policy Council’s activities are not isolated. The Responsible Gambling Advisory Council held a separate meeting weeks prior to discuss long-term strategies for fostering safer gambling practices across the country. These parallel efforts underscore Spain’s commitment to a balanced and responsible approach to gambling regulation.
