Is Portugal ready for a standalone gaming regulator?

Our Pedro Cortés, Tânia Pinho, and Bernardo G. explore that question in a new article published on Lexology: Time for a Dedicated Gaming Regulator in Portugal? The Case for Institutional Reform.

The article examines Portugal’s current gaming regulatory framework and makes the case that separating gaming supervision from tourism promotion would strengthen regulatory independence, bolster consumer protection, and bring Portugal into closer alignment with European standards. It assesses shortcomings in the existing model and outlines the public-interest, operational, and fiscal benefits of establishing a dedicated gaming authority.

Key highlights:
• Structural Decoupling — Why separating gaming regulation from Turismo de Portugal, I.P. is essential to resolving the inherent conflict between economic promotion and market oversight.

• Institutional Autonomy & Technical Expertise — How an independent regulator could deliver specialized digital supervision, robust AML/CFT compliance, and stronger player protection.

• Enforcement & Revenue Optimization — The case for enhanced enforcement against illicit operations to broaden the legitimate tax base—without raising current tax rates.

• Alignment with European Standards — How Portugal compares to established specialized gaming authorities across Europe, including France (ANJ), the Netherlands (KSA), and Sweden (Spelinspektionen).
This evolving regulatory debate carries material implications for operators, investors, and other gaming sector stakeholders in Portugal.

📄 Read the full article here.

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