Norway is at a turning point in its gambling regulation, according to Maarten Haijer, Secretary General of the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA).  In the perspective of the EGBA Norway’s current monopoly system, aimed to protect consumers, it is now struggling to keep up with evolving online gambling trends.

The monopoly model, led by Norsk Tipping, is losing ground as Norwegian players turn to international platforms offering more attractive options, so Haijer. Norway’s gambling regulation in his view would need a new approach to maintain control and consumer safety.

EGBA states that around 50% of Norway’s online gambling already happens on offshore sites, showing a gap in the existing regulatory framework.  Norway has one of the highest rates of offshore gambling in Europe.

A shift in policy, so the EGBA, would bring these activities under Norwegian oversight – see why:

  • Norsk Tipping was recently fined 36 million NOK (€3 million) for failing to meet consumer protection standards. This fine highlights that a state monopoly does not guarantee superior consumer safeguards over a well-regulated multi-licensing system.

  • Norwegian players are drawn to offshore sites due to better odds, user experience, and more betting options. However, this shift means they forfeit local consumer protections, exposing them to potential risks not covered by Norwegian law.

  • Denmark and Sweden successfully transitioned from state monopolies to multi-licensing models. Their regulatory changes led to increased tax revenues and stronger player protections, demonstrating that competition does not necessarily mean more gambling, but better regulation.

  • A multi-licensing model allows several operators to offer gambling under strict regulations. It ensures all market participants follow the same safety rules, including self-exclusion programs and responsible gaming measures. This approach reduced offshore gambling activity in Denmark and Sweden.

  • Norway’s existing system does not prevent gambling but limits oversight of international platforms. A multi-licensing system could bring offshore operators under Norwegian regulation, ensuring all players are protected by national laws and safeguards.

  • Finland, Europe’s last gambling monopoly, is already transitioning towards a multi-licensing system. If Norway maintains its current model, it risks being the only country in Europe with an outdated regulatory framework.

  • Multi-licensing would not replace Norsk Tipping but instead complement its role. Denmark and Sweden showed that former monopoly operators can thrive under competitive but well-regulated markets. Norsk Tipping could continue its land-based monopoly while opening online gambling to regulated competition.

  • Evidence from Denmark and Sweden suggests no major rise in problem gambling following multi-licensing. Instead, stronger regulatory oversight helped implement national safety measures that protect consumers more effectively.

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