Spain recently hosted a significant industry event, the International Gaming Congress, held under the crucial theme, ‘The Social Impact of Gaming.’
The congress, which took place at the National Mint and Stamp Factory, successfully convened a diverse group of stakeholders, including government officials, gaming operators, industry associations, and international experts.
The primary goal was to engage in dialogue concerning pressing regulatory challenges and the broader societal implications of the gambling sector.
The event, which was conducted bilingually with simultaneous translation services for both in-person and virtual attendees, underscored the importance of comprehensive public policy.
The congress was inaugurated remotely by Pablo Bustinduy, the Minister of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs and 2030 Agenda, while Andrés Barragán, Secretary General of Consumer Affairs and Gaming, delivered the opening remarks in person.
In his address, Minister Bustinduy strongly emphasised his ministry’s unwavering commitment to fostering safe gaming environments. His stated priority is to protect minors from premature initiation into gambling and to mitigate the development of problem gambling behaviours within the population.
Following this, Secretary General Barragán delivered a major announcement concerning legislative progress. He confirmed that the Congress of Deputies had approved several key measures aimed at strengthening consumer protection.
These include a ban on the use of welcome bonuses for new customers and the implementation of a strict requirement mandating that any payment used for online gaming accounts must correspond to a bank card registered in the exact name of the online account holder.
Barragán expressed satisfaction with these legislative advancements, noting their importance in reinforcing player security.
The strong industry interest in these regulatory debates was reflected in the high attendance figures. The first session reached its full capacity, attracting over 320 attendees.
The largest single group present comprised operators (25%), followed by personnel from the Directorate General for the Regulation of Gambling (14%), and representatives from universities (13%) and legal services/consultancy (13%). Public administration, public authorities, laboratories, providers, and services each accounted for 6%, while player/consumer associations and operator associations each made up 4% of the attendees.
Furthermore, the sessions during the International Gaming Congress Spain were broadcast live on the respective YouTube channels of the Directorate General for the Regulation of Gambling and the Secretary General of Consumer Affairs and Gaming, registering over 400 views on the first day alone.
Pablo Bustinduy, Minister of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs and 2030 Agenda:
“His ministry’s commitment to creating safe gaming environments that protect minors from premature initiation and the development of problem gambling behaviours.”
Andrés Barragán, Secretary General of Consumer Affairs and Gaming:
“He expressed satisfaction with the legislative progress.”
