4H Agency x SBC Eurasia: Finland’s Gambling Reform: A Historic Shift Towards Market Openness

In a landmark move, Finland has announced a sweeping gambling reform set to take effect by 2026, marking the end of the state-run Veikkaus monopoly. This reform aligns with broader European gambling legislation updates and represents a major step toward an open and competitive Finland gambling market liberalization.

Finland gambling regulation 2025 introduces a licensing-based model to replace the monopoly system. The new structure aims to increase player protection, combat illegal gambling, and ensure regulatory alignment with EU standards.

The Finnish online casino license will be available to both domestic and international operators that meet strict requirements, including responsible gambling measures, AML compliance, and restrictions on advertising.

The reform opens the Finnish market to various verticals—online casinos, sports betting, and virtual lotteries — offering more choices to consumers and inviting new investment.

While Veikkaus will retain exclusive rights to land-based gaming and lotteries, its digital monopoly will be dismantled, becoming one of many licensed entities in the new regime.

These changes follow recent European gambling legislation updates, signaling Finland’s commitment to fair competition, enhanced supervision, and EU policy alignment.