Spain: Gaming sector enters on TV

Besides, the Secretary of Secretary of State of Telecommunications an for the Information Society (state audiovisual authority), and Self-control have suscribed the Code of the General Direction of Gaming Regulation. The norms contained in the code signed mention aspects such as responsible gaming principles, underaged protection or the principles for self–regulation of commercial communication in audiovisual media and the services of the information society.

It establishes a timetable restriction (10 p.m. to 6 a.m.) to commercial communications and self-promotions of the gaming activities: roulette, Baccarat, black jack, poker and sports and horse race fixed odd bets on television.

In the case of sportsbooks and horse racing, part-mutuels or fixed odd bets, communication will be allowed during the broadcasting of sports events from their beginning up to the end, as long as it corresponds with the organization of bets made, could be on the same event or on others.

This code also forces advertisers to include a message regarding social responsibility or fight against the adiction.

Games of chance are the fifth activity with more percentage of business volume of e-commerce in Spain, according to sources of the Spanish Online Gaming Association. In fact, it is estimated that in 2011 the sector has generated incomes of more than 370 million euros, a 20% more than in 2010. This year they expect to reach 500 million and in 2014 it could exceed the 800 million euros.

The good health of the sector has its explanation in the progressive increment of Internet players. In 2011, the number of unique users of this type reached 600,000, 60% more than on the previous year. Among the most demanded products there are sportsbooks, poker, games of chance and casino.