Portugal debates overhaul of online gambling law as illegal betting persists

Portugal’s government is preparing to revise its online gambling framework, with the Economy minister indicating reforms are imminent despite the absence of a concrete proposal. The Associação Portuguesa de Apostas e Jogos Online (APAJO), representing eight licensed operators, released an Aximage-based study showing that about 40% of online bettors in the country place wagers on illegal sites, a proportion that has remained steady for five years.

APAJO stresses that combating the “thousands” of rogue platforms requires both stricter advertising standards and measures such as blocking Portuguese payment methods used by illicit operators, potentially involving Banco de Portugal. The association also cautions that eliminating advertising for licensed operators could inadvertently expand the illegal market. Parliamentary discussion, scheduled by the Livre party, will address these issues alongside proposals from the Socialist Party to strengthen consumer protection, extend self-exclusion periods, and increase transparency. APAJO remains open to dialogue on legislative evolution and self-regulation initiatives within the sector.