SBC News Voice of the Sports Betting Industry
DGOJ, Spain’s General Directorate of Gambling, has started discussions on data administration policies and practices needed to establish a ‘common data registry’ for gambling information.
The discussions on the framework to set up a centralised registry for customer data from all gambling operators licensed in Spain began on 16 May 2024.
Director General Mikel Arana led the initial proceedings, hosting the Sectoral Commission, the advisory body for Spain’s General Assembly on policy-making and the development of federal projects and directives.
The command to establish a common data registry was approved by the General Assembly in March 2023 as part of The Decree on Responsible Gambling Environments.
The registry is recognised as the central mechanism for how the DGOJ will implement its new regulatory approach to monitor the activities of gambling licensees, their conduct, and engagement with customers.
New compliance duties will require Spanish gambling operators to monitor and keep records of ‘risk profiles’ for customers under the age of 25.
Once established, from 2025 onwards, the DGOJ will implement all remaining measures of its Royal Decree which will introduce Europe’s most rigorous compliance and KYC standards and the toughest surveillance of gambling licences.
Arana noted that the first stage of discussions is focused on “improving data integration across public administrations with jurisdiction over gambling and integrating this data into a comprehensive report on gaming activity in Spain.”
Arana further elaborated on the importance of this initiative, stating, “The establishment of a centralised data registry will enhance the transparency and accountability of gambling operations within Spain. It will provide a robust framework for monitoring and ensuring compliance with the highest standards of responsible gaming.”
By consolidating data across different jurisdictions, the DGOJ aims to create a holistic view of gambling activities, thereby facilitating better decision-making and policy formulation.
In addition to the centralised data registry, the DGOJ plans to introduce stricter KYC measures, ensuring that all gambling operators adhere to stringent verification processes. This will help prevent underage gambling and protect vulnerable individuals from the risks associated with gambling.
The next steps will involve detailed consultations with stakeholders, including gambling operators, public administrations, and consumer protection groups. The DGOJ aims to finalise the framework and implementation plan by the end of the year, with the new regulations coming into effect in early 2025.
This comprehensive approach underscores Spain’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and responsibility in the gambling sector. The DGOJ’s initiatives will not only safeguard consumers but also enhance the overall credibility and sustainability of the gambling industry in Spain.
