ICE Barcelona to host enhanced Regulatory Programme as focus intensifies on illegal online gambling

ICE Barcelona has underscored its commitment to the regulated gambling market by confirming the creation of an enhanced Regulatory Programme, which organisers say will attract circa 400 regulators to January's show, up from the record 300 who were present at ICE Barcelona 2025.

The programme of activities was announced against the backdrop of the findings of a European Casino Association report, which calculated the costs of illegal online gambling to European Union member states to be €20 billion in annual tax revenues.

ICE Portfolio Director Margaret Dunn said: "All of the conversations that we have with our international stakeholders are consistent in confirming the importance they attach to tackling the illegal market, which represents a major threat to consumers, to governments and to operators alike. ICE has always stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the industry, and we are using the power and reach of the brand to help expedite a joined-up strategy to tackle illegal gambling."

Dealing with the specifics, she explained: "We have assembled a Regulatory Advisory Board which has provided insight on how we can most effectively support the industry. Based on their guidance, we've introduced an enhanced Regulator Programme, which provides exclusive access to the ICE World Gaming Gala, discounts for regulators, closed-door sessions, working lunches and much more.

"We are 100% committed to the growth of regulated gaming across all verticals and all regulated jurisdictions. By being the only event to bring together the entire global gaming ecosystem, we are in a unique position where we can help support the industry to effect meaningful change."

To encourage open discussions, the 'World Regulatory Briefing', part of the ICE World Gaming Forum, will operate under Chatham House Rules for 2026. After the opening keynote and panel, the stage will switch to Chatham House Rules from 11:00 am. The Chatham House Rule allows participants to use the information they receive but forbids revealing the identity or affiliation of the speakers or any other participant.

It is used throughout the world to encourage open and honest dialogue by creating an environment in which participants can speak freely without fear of their comments being publicly attributed to them.

Combatting the Illegal Market and Protecting Players is one of the six core topics that will be explored, analysed, dissected and debated at the ICE World Gaming Forum. WGF will explore the dynamic between the tightening of gambling regulations, including tax changes, AML scrutiny and advertising restrictions and the resurgence of illegal markets. It will debate the importance of balancing consumer protection and innovation to keep legal markets competitive.

The full World Gaming Forum agenda can be viewed here. To register for ICE Barcelona, Fira Barcelona Gran Via, 19 -21 January 2026, visit this link.