Denmark moves closer to new lottery and bingo rules

Garance Limouzy September 18, 2024

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Denmark moves closer to new lottery and bingo rules

In March 2024, the Danish Government, together with all parliamentary parties, reached an agreement on new rules for charity lotteries and the liberalisation of land-based bingo. A bill based on this agreement is set to be presented when Parliament reopens in October 2024, as the consultation period ends today, 18 September 2024. These changes, designed to simplify the framework for voluntary associations and modernise Denmark’s gambling regulations, are expected to come into effect by early 2025.

Simplifying charity lotteries

Through this bill, the Danish government aims to simplify charity lottery rules. Voluntary associations, which often rely on lotteries and bingo events to raise funds for charitable purposes, have long faced complex regulations and duties on winnings. Under the new rules, these organisations will experience fewer administrative burdens, and the duty on lottery winnings will be removed, making it easier for them to host events and retain more funds for their causes.
Minister for Taxation Jeppe Bruus (pictured above) explained: “The new rules are a helping hand to the many voluntary associations in Denmark that view lotteries and bingo as effective ways to raise funds for good causes. We are removing outdated rules and opening up new opportunities for associations.”

Introducing liberalised land-based bingo

In addition to changes in charity lotteries, the bill introduces liberalised land-based bingo. Previously, land-based bingo had been heavily restricted, but the new regulations will allow bingo operators to function more freely, following a model similar to online bingo. This is expected to open up new opportunities for operators while still adhering to the basic regulatory framework that governs the broader gambling industry.
The impact of this liberalisation will be closely monitored by the regulator, with an evaluation scheduled for 2026 to assess its effectiveness and identify any potential areas for improvement.

Fixing match-fixing

Alongside changes to lotteries and bingo, the agreement also focuses on strengthening measures to fight match-fixing in Danish sports. Sports betting operators will now be required to report any suspicions of match-fixing, and the Danish Gambling Authority will receive additional supervisory powers to enforce these rules.
“The threat of match-fixing looms over sports, and we are tightening the requirements for gambling operators to ensure they are active participants in the fight against this issue,” said Minister Bruus.

Next steps

While the new rules are still subject to final adoption, the Danish Gambling Authority is actively engaging with stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition to the new regulatory environment, providing guidance and support to associations, companies, and other parties interested in hosting lotteries or bingo events for charitable causes. The regulator is preparing an updated application process that will guide applicants through the licensing process and ensure compliance with the revised guidelines.
If adopted, the new rules would allow applicants to apply for charity lottery licenses under the updated regulations starting from 21 November 2024, with a potential start date for the licenses as early as 1 January 2025.