Finland’s Administrative Committee has called to delay the implementation of the commercial licensing gambling market until July 1, 2027, as the Licensing and Supervision...
Finland iGaming bill to be implemented in January 2026
On December 16, 2025, the Finnish government voted with 158 in favor, 9 against, and 32 absentees to approve the new online gambling bill.
The reforms will take effect from January 2026 and stop the market’s years-long monopoly model. Additionally, operators will be able to apply for licenses from March 1, 2026.
The bill requires final approval from the Finnish president, who will sign it into law before the end of 2025.
The iGaming market liberalization process was first proposed in July 2024, with the initial bill introduced by the Ministry of the Interior.
Minister of the Interior Mari Rantanen said:
“The aim of the bill has been to find a regulatory solution in which the regulation combating gambling harms would be balanced with the fact that gambling companies want to apply for a license and that online gambling would be directed to a regulated gaming offering.”
During this period, operators have been preparing for the approval of the bill. Monopoly Veikkaus has been in the process of establishing a private business to compete with other operators in the new liberalized iGaming market.
Despite the delays and amendments, operators are in positive anticipation of the changes in the iGaming landscape.
As Finland moves forward with its new gambling bill, Veikkaus has introduced a leadership change that adds to a period of transition for the operator.
Veikkaus deputy CEO...
