Spanish gambling regulator announces new consumer protection strategy

The DGOJ says the new Safe Gambling Programme 2026–2030 will provide a flexible and adaptable instrument.

Spain.- The Spanish gambling regulator DGOJ has announced a new consumer protection strategy following a meeting of the Advisory Council for Safe Gambling this week. The meeting at the DGOJ headquarters in Madrid addressed new lines of action on player protection and the prevention of risky gambling behaviour.

The meeting was led by DGOJ director Mikel Arana, in his capacity as president of the Council, which comprises professionals and representatives from the General State Administration and Spain’s autonomous communities along with professionals from scientific, health and academic institutions that conduct research related to gambling disorders.

The final version of the Safe Gambling Programme 2026–2030 defines new priorities and general objectives to guide action in this area over the coming years. It establishes a set of measures aimed at developing public policies based on prevention, improved control mechanisms and the promotion of an evidence-based approach.

The programme is structured around three priorities: Analysis and Diagnosis, Prevention and Promotion of Safe Gambling, and Participant Protection. There are six general objectives and 24 specific measures that develop projects the DGOJ considers priorities to address with the assistance of the Safe Gambling Advisory Council.

The new programme is intended to offer a “flexible and adaptable instrument that can be updated based on the evolution of the sector, technological advances and available knowledge,” the regulator said. In this regard, the DGOJ may adjust or incorporate new measures, after consulting the Advisory Council.

From an operational standpoint, certain actions will be developed with the support of the Scientific Section, comprised of professionals from the academic, healthcare and research fields.

The DGOJ intends to compile a catalogue of international and regional gambling policies. It will also review game features that may contribute to addictive behaviour. Meanwhile, it will establish a directory of treatment and support services and will reassess the player self-assessment tool that’s used for deposit limits.

The DGOJ also intends to roll out communication campaigns and to hold regular thematic conferences on topics such as artificial intelligence and loot boxes in video games.

The DGOJ said that legislative advancements made since Law 13/2011 on Gambling Regulation had led to a significant transformation in the regulatory approach and a new framework focused on consumer protection, placing consumers at the heart of public policy.