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Finland’s long-planned shift from a monopoly system to an open, competitive online gambling market is beginning to take shape.
After months of industry speculation, the government confirmed that two draft regulations for the new Finnish Gambling Act will be published shortly, keeping the country on track for a 2027 market launch. For operators watching the reform closely, the update is a clear signal. Finland is not slowing down, and the core framework for licensing is almost ready.
A timeline that stays on course
Officials said they still expect licence applications to open early in 2026. This was not always guaranteed. Industry groups had warned that delays in publishing rules could push the transition back by six months.
The government’s latest announcement instead brings reassurance. Finland intends to stay aligned with its original roadmap and introduce full competitive licensing by January 2027.
Two draft regulations set the foundation
The upcoming documents will define the technical and security expectations for online gambling firms entering the Finnish market. Both drafts are designed to mirror international standards so that foreign operators can transition smoothly.
The first regulation focuses on random number generation. It will outline:
- how RNG systems must be tested and verified
- what audit methods are considered acceptable
- what traceability requirements must be met
- how operators should document and monitor game outcomes
The goal is to ensure fairness and consistency across all digital games offered in Finland.
The second regulation addresses security. It introduces a dual-layer model that requires:
- a full data security audit every two years
- an external vulnerability assessment every year
Both checks must be carried out by accredited independent bodies. The audits will examine how games protect player data, secure financial information and safeguard log files. The annual scan will look for weaknesses before they can be exploited.
Inspectors will need accreditation matching ISO or IEC standards. Finland may temporarily allow bodies approved in Sweden or Denmark during the transition period.
Veikkaus prepares for the end of exclusivity
While the new system opens the door to global operators, it also marks a major shift for Finland’s current monopoly operator, Veikkaus. The organisation is preparing to split into two.
One branch will keep its monopoly on lotteries and retail sports betting. The other will enter the competitive field alongside foreign brands once licences are issued.
International operators are already positioning themselves
Interest in the Finnish market has been growing for months. ATG, Sweden’s horse racing betting operator, has taken early steps by forming a joint venture with Suomen Hippos. Paf, based in the Åland Islands, is also preparing for entry and has already signed Finnish Formula 1 champion Kimi Räikkönen as a brand ambassador.
A major shift for the Nordics
Finland has been one of the last EU nations with a digital gambling monopoly. The upcoming regulations show how quickly that era is ending.
With the draft rules nearly ready and the timeline intact, the next twelve months will shape what the Finnish market looks like, who enters it and how competitive the new landscape becomes.
Finland’s open online market is no longer a distant plan. It is now a countdown.
Source: Focus Gaming News
