Interactive
Portugal – Portugese government considers online casino ban
By Lewis - 23 April 2020
The Portuguese government has introduced legislation that could lead to a ban on online casino during the coronavirus state of emergency. If enacted, a partial or total prohibition of customers accessing online casinos could be introduced.
A clause in recent legislation allows for “partial or total limitations on access to online gambling are established until the end of the period relating to the state of emergency, with a view to protecting consumers.”
The wording of the amendment does not explain in which situation the prohibition could be introduced or clarify what the difference between a partial or total ban would look like. However, it is believed that any measures brought in would apply to online casino activity.
Officials have voiced concerns that individuals may exhibit less impulse control and could be drawn into gambling during the lockdown. According to regulators, the financial impact of the Covid-19 outbreak could also entice individuals to gamble money they cannot afford to lose.
It is believed that the proposal to restrict or potentially ban participation at online casinos is one of several plans the Portuguese authorities are considering during the outbreak. However, further details on what these measures consist of are not yet known.
