Finland is one of the latest European countries to announce a complete overhaul of their online gambling market. In 2027, the country is set to open the market finally. And it was confirmed that the new legal framework will entail a dual license system.
Finally Shifting Away from a Monopoly
Finland’s long-anticipated move from a state-controlled gambling system to a free and regulated environment is continuing. This week, the government announced a couple of things, including some new deets on the legislative proposal HE 16/2025.
The reform, which is scheduled to go into effect on 1 January 2027, will introduce a dual-license structure comprising B2C gambling game licenses and B2B game-software licenses.
Not only that, but it will also require the state-owned Veikkaus to split into two distinct entities. Each entity will have separate responsibilities and tasks under the new regime.
Those that want to apply for licenses, such as betting or casino service companies, will get a chance to apply for 5-year permits. Although exact dates are not disclosed yet, experts expect the application window for potential licensees to open in early 2026. These licenses will carry a 22% tax rate on GGR.
The implementation of the new system marks a huge milestone for Finland’s gambling market as they will transition from a state-controlled monopoly into a competitive and free-standing market.
New Compliance Rules to Tackle Unregulated Activity
At the center of the new reform is the requirement that all operators that obtain licenses will have to use only approved B2B software.
Though this might sound inconsequential, it’s actually a very important step. It’s an unprecedented layer of supply-chain monitoring that’s not exactly common industry-wide.
The application window for these permits will be open in early 2027, and they will be fully valid and required starting 1 January 2028.
The Veikkaus will split into two separate entities to align with EU competition standards. One entity will retain exclusive control over lottery products, physical slot machines and land-based casinos under a 10-year monopoly.
The other will join the newly opened online betting and casino sector and compete with other licensees for its spot under the spotlight with fellow competitors.
No one can tell for certain what organization will be in charge of monitoring the sector. However, some experts say that a new supervisory authority could appear ahead of market opening. Stay tuned for more info and updates about the upcoming launch of Finland’s monopoly-free gambling market.
