How Italy Became an iGaming Expansion Focus in 2023

Every popular gaming provider looking to expand is turning its head towards Italy. A recent change in legislation recognises gambling in Italy as a sector requiring tax duties, new player protection measures, and the need to become a more transparent industry.

News of their recent regulation changes after the release of the Tax Delegation Law has providers excited to enter the market and bring fan favourites to the country.

More Details Regulation Rework

Italy’s parliament will conduct its fourth try at overhauling the gambling sector laws and is expecting its first draft by the 20th of September, 2024.

The first draft, or Phase One, will include several changes or adaptations to the existing regulations, and others may be voided:

Overhauling the concession model for gambling in Italy and introducing fixed rules to operate land-based gambling sites within the 20 outlined regions.
Improvements to existing regulations regarding player protection and promotion of responsible gambling.
Alterations to player safety include change of stake limits, machine payouts, mandatory staff training, and banning underage wagering at sports events.
Lastly, a priority is overhauling Italy’s self-exclusion scheme to protect vulnerable players.

As previous attempts were unsuccessful due to changes within the government, this time, the Deputy Minister will prepare the first drafts of a plan to modernise the Italian gambling market.

Facts The Push To Update Regulations

Italy's gambling stats show the importance that the gambling sector plays in the country's economic state:

The gambling sector is contributing €11 billion to the government annually.
It employs around 150,000 people annually.
By 2022, the gross gaming revenue increased by 31%, reaching €19.6 billion.
By the end of 2022, tax revenues will increase by 28%, amounting to €11.2 billion.

It’s for these reasons that Deputy Minister Maurizio Leo's endorsement of regulation changes is an important and necessary step.

Worldwide Italy: A Major Focus

With the release of these figures, there is no doubt that popular providers will line up to gain access to another market. Some particular gaming developers, like Hacksaw Gaming, gained access to distribute their online content to the Italian market.

This latest addition to Italy's online gambling solidifies its presence by climbing into partnerships with GBO and NetBet. The CEO of Hacksaw Gaming, Gabrielle Star, commented on the new venture, saying:

Quote

"It gives us immense joy to team up with such a marquee name. GBO is the largest operator in Italy, commanding a huge player base, and they align with our own vision of providing elevated online gaming experiences through our rich back catalogue. We're excited to see our award-winning content reach an even broader audience as we drive forward our strategy to grow regulated markets."

Italy's gambling market gained five top-performing games from this alliance with Hacksaw Gaming, all of which will appear in online casino lobbies of Lottomatica and GoldBet, two popular platforms.

With the regulation changes, more providers will enter the country and become vital players in the epic expansion of Italy's new and improved gambling market.