Reforming Italy’s Gaming Sector: Insights from Roberto Alesse’s Interview on Upcoming Changes
Published: April 11, 2024 | Author: Ron Clarke
In a recent interview in the newspaper “Intervento nella Società” with Roberto Alesse, the Director of the Italian Customs and Monopolies Agency since January 13, 2023, significant insights were shared about the forthcoming reforms in Italy’s public gaming sector. The conversation highlighted Alesse’s strategic approach to modernizing and regulating this dynamic industry in alignment with the 2023 Law No. 111. This law serves as the cornerstone for the proposed changes, aiming to adapt the gaming sector to the modern challenges posed by technological advancements and the digital era.
The interview shed light on the critical areas of focus within these reforms, particularly emphasizing the need to revitalize the entertainment machine sector, including Amusement With Prizes (AWP) and Video Lottery Terminals (VLT). Alesse suggested investigating changes to tax policies and operational rules to encourage innovation and enhance competition within this sector.
Further discussions in the interview elaborated on the establishment of a modern regulatory framework for the gaming industry. This framework aims to enhance player protection, ensure fair play, and create a beneficial environment for both operators and consumers. The intent is to align the industry with current technological trends, ensuring its long-term sustainability.
Alesse also touched upon the importance of combating illegal gaming activities as part of the reform. Strengthening anti-fraud measures and enhancing collaboration with law enforcement and other national administrations are crucial strategies to safeguard the industry’s integrity and consumer safety.
Promoting responsible gaming emerged as another key theme in the interview. The agency’s commitment to implementing stringent player protection measures and raising public awareness reflects a drive towards establishing higher standards for responsible gaming practices. These efforts aim to protect consumers and elevate the overall reputation of the gaming sector.
The interview with Roberto Alesse underscores a significant period of transformation for Italy’s public gaming sector under his leadership. The reforms discussed are poised to address current challenges and set the stage for the industry’s future development, emphasizing regulation, innovation, and ethical practices.
This is not the first time Roberto Alesse has spoken about gaming reforms and responsible gaming initiatives under the leadership of the ADM. In an interview on February 2024, Alesse unveiled his strategic approach to the reorganization of online games, emphasizing the importance of balancing public health and the financial sustainability of the sector.
Promoting responsible gaming is a challenge shared by many European countries, highlighting the importance of this issue on a broader scale. In a recent review of operators’ action plans, the French gambling regulator, L’Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ) has highlighted that France has made significant progress in its efforts to curb problem gambling, highlighting effective strategies in promoting responsible gaming. Other European countries are also making great efforts to demonstrate progress in this crucial area.
