stricter controls on gambling: a necessary reform or excessive restriction?

Spain is on the verge of implementing stricter identity verification rules for gambling operators, aiming to curb underage betting and reinforce responsible gambling practices. The move, spearheaded by the Socialist Parliamentary Group (SPG), comes in response to concerns about youth gambling participation, with a 2022 national study revealing that 21.5% of students aged 14 to 18 had engaged in betting activities within the past year.

This initiative, however, unfolds against an intriguing backdrop: a Ministry of Health report is expected to indicate a decline in problem gambling rates and underage participation. This raises a key question—is the push for stricter regulations driven by an actual worsening of the problem, or is it a precautionary step to maintain positive trends?

why Spain is tightening gambling regulations

The SPG’s proposal places particular emphasis on the risks associated with early gambling exposure, which research suggests can lead to higher risks of long-term addiction and social harm. In a statement, the group urged the Spanish government to:

✅ Implement stronger ID verification for both online and land-based gambling establishments
✅ Enforce access controls on slot machines and other gambling devices
✅ Encourage a less addictive design for online casino games

The Joint Commission for the Study of Addiction Problems, a parliamentary body focused on tackling addiction, approved the amendments on January 27, 2025. The proposal now moves to Spain’s Congress of Deputies for debate and a vote, before proceeding to the Senate for final approval.

While the proposal enjoys political momentum, a specific date for the congressional debate has yet to be set.

from online to land-based: expanding KYC regulations

Spain already mandates identity verification for online gambling operators, ensuring compliance with know-your-customer (KYC) and anti-money laundering (AML) regulations. The proposed measures would extend these requirements to land-based establishments, which have historically faced weaker ID enforcement.

This shift aligns with broader global trends, as several European nations—including the Netherlands—have recently strengthened their gambling regulations in response to concerns over underage gambling and addiction risks.

However, critics argue that tougher regulations could push minors and vulnerable individuals towards unregulated or illegal betting platforms, which lack responsible gambling safeguards.

opportunities and risks: is Spain finding the right balance?

the potential benefits

✅ Stronger consumer protection – Ensuring that gambling operators uphold responsible gambling standards
✅ Reduced youth gambling rates – Closing loopholes in land-based gambling ID verification
✅ Alignment with global best practices – Following the lead of other European markets in prioritizing player safety

the risks and challenges

❌ Push towards illegal gambling – Excessively strict regulations might drive minors and self-excluded players to unregulated betting platforms
❌ Operational burdens for businesses – Land-based casinos and betting shops may face increased compliance costs
❌ Potential decline in gambling tax revenue – If stricter controls lead to lower participation, Spain’s regulated gambling sector could see revenue shrinkage

While the government frames this as a proactive measure, the industry must navigate a delicate balance—ensuring responsible gambling without pushing players towards riskier, unregulated alternatives.

what’s next?

With no confirmed date for a Congress debate, gambling operators in Spain are in a state of uncertainty. Should the proposal pass both legislative hurdles, Spain will join a growing number of countries reinforcing stricter ID verification laws.

This move could serve as a benchmark for other European markets, especially in industries where player protection and regulation are in constant tension with market growth and revenue considerations.

final thoughts

As Spain moves to reinforce ID verification, the challenge lies in striking a balance—protecting vulnerable players without overburdening businesses or driving gambling underground.

With Europe’s gambling landscape evolving, Spain’s decision could set a precedent, shaping the future of gambling regulation across the continent