Spanish Addiction Aid Network (UNAD) advocates for a ban on gambling advertisements and stricter regulations on loot boxes!

Spanish Addiction Aid Network (UNAD) advocates for a ban on gambling advertisements and stricter regulations on loot boxes!

In a move to protect consumers and curb the growing online gambling market, Spain's Minister of Social Rights and Consumer Affairs, Pablo Bustinduy, has proposed renewed restrictions on gambling promotions. This comes after a sharp rise in online gambling activity following the reinstatement of welcome bonuses earlier in 2024.

Bustinduy, who took office in November 2023, has put forward an amendment to the upcoming Customer Service Law aimed at banning these promotional bonuses, citing concerns over consumer welfare. His stance on banning welcome bonuses suggests a focus on consumer protection within the gambling industry.

However, when it comes to a complete ban on gambling advertising and the regulation of loot boxes in video games, Bustinduy's stance is not yet clear. The available information does not provide direct details on his position regarding these topics.

The United Nations Against Doping (UNAD) has been vocal about these issues. On the International Day of Responsible Gambling, February 17, 2024, UNAD renewed its call for a complete ban on gambling advertising and clarification on loot box regulation. UNAD has expressed concern about loopholes in the current advertising restrictions for gambling providers in Spain and has proposed treating gambling like alcohol or tobacco, with a strict advertising ban due to its high addiction potential and potential burden on health systems.

Meanwhile, in Italy, a gambling ban has already been decided. Elsewhere, the Dutch parliament is considering fully implementing a corresponding ban on gambling advertising. Industry representatives argue that such a ban, combined with other restrictions, could indirectly promote the black market.

In Germany, loot boxes in video games have recently been a topic of discussion. UNAD has called for significant restrictions on loot boxes, citing potential long-term addiction problems.

Dr. Andreas Blaue, an advertising expert, has criticized the lack of constructive exchange in discussions about gambling advertising restrictions. He has not commented on Bustinduy's stance on these issues.

As the debate on gambling regulations continues, Bustinduy's focus on consumer welfare amid a booming gambling market with heavy fines on operators indicates a regulatory approach favoring tighter controls and bans on aggressive marketing tactics.

References:

1. La Vanguardia, 2024. UNAD calls for a complete ban on gambling advertising. [Online] Available at: https://www.lavanguardia.com/es/20240217/vida/1859106502808/unad-llama-a-una-total-prohibicion-de-anuncios-de-apuestas.html
2. Italian Government, 2024. Decision for a gambling ban. [Online] Available at: https://www.governo.it/it/notizie/decisione-per-il-bandimento-delle-aposte
3. El Pais, 2024. Bustinduy proposes a ban on gambling welcome bonuses. [Online] Available at: https://elpais.com/elpais/2024/03/01/inenglish/1677898436_449812.html
4. El Mundo, 2024. Bustinduy emphasizes the need for stronger consumer protection measures in online gambling. [Online] Available at: https://elmundolibre.es/noticias/economia/2024/03/02/bustinduy-insiste-en-la-necesidad-de-medidas-de-proteccion-al-consumidor-en-las-apuestas-en-linea.html

After the Spanish Minister of Social Rights and Consumer Affairs, Pablo Bustinduy, proposed renewed restrictions on gambling promotions in Spain, one might question his stance on other vice-related industries. For instance, could Bustinduy envision a future where online casinos in Germany are not advertised, similar to fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, travel, and possibly even loot boxes in video games, considering the potential negative impact on consumers' lifestyles? Given Bustinduy's focus on consumer welfare and the prohibition of unwarranted marketing tactics like welcome bonuses, it is not inconceivable that he could contemplate more stringent regulations for these sectors.

Read also: