Denmark Readying Regulated Online PokerNew EU Tax Ruling Means State-Run Gambling Operator Danske Spil Can Offer Online Poker |
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The EU yesterday ruled that a new Danish law allowing for lower taxes for online gambling companies was in line with its rules.
The move paves the way for state run monopoly Danske Spil to operate online poker from January 1, 2012 as it means it will now be subject to the same tax rates as its rivals.
Some organisations such as the Danish Slot Machine Association argued that lower taxes for online companies amounted to illegal state aid.
Sigrid Ligné, secretary general of the European Gaming and Betting Association welcomed the announcement saying, “We are satisfied that this investigation has led the European Commission to confirm that differentiated tax treatment for online and offline gambling activities is justified and is the result of distinct business environments.
“Online operators are subject to a much higher global competitive pressure than land-based providers. The business model of land-based operators is completely different as casinos in particular operate quasi local monopolies in their specific geographical market”.
Danske Spil spokesman Thomas Rorsig added, “It has been hard for us to compete with bookmakers because they are based on Malta but now they will have to deal with Danish legislation.”
Up to 25 operators are expected to receive a license under the new law which will largely break up state monopoly in all areas except lottery.
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