Spelinspektionen has officially banned Bitx Operations and Ryker from operating in the country. This comes as part of Sweden’s ongoing effort to shut out unlicensed iGaming platforms that fail to meet regulatory standards. Neither company holds a Swedish gaming licence, which is required to legally target local players.

While the bans are confirmed, further consequences are still unknown. Spelinspektionen made clear that the decision is part of a wider push to support the regulated market and increase transparency.

In both cases, the regulator stated: “The Swedish Gambling Authority prioritises measures that contribute to gambling taking place at operators that have a Swedish gaming licence. We clarify the grounds for our decisions to ban illegal online gambling by publishing these on our website.”

Concerns Grow Over Channelisation Rates in Swedish iGaming

The bans follow recent reporting on Sweden’s current channelisation rate, which measures how much gambling occurs within the licensed market. According to the latest data, Sweden’s overall rate sits at 85%, meaning around 15% of gambling is taking place through unlicensed platforms.

iGaming channelisation is estimated to be between 72% and 82% in the online space. This suggests that nearly one in four online bets could be placed with unregulated operators. These figures continue to raise concerns about the effectiveness of current enforcement.

Spelinspektionen’s latest actions show a growing urgency to protect consumers and licensed operators from unfair competition. The regulator has said it will continue to target companies that fail to meet local compliance requirements.

Industry Calls for Stronger Inquiry into Gambling Market Reform

While the Ministry of Finance is planning a new inquiry into the gambling industry, several stakeholders argue that the approach lacks depth. Critics say the plan will not be enough to fully address the issues around market leakage and unlicensed gambling.

The Swedish Trade Association for Online Gambling has called for a broader, parliamentary-led inquiry. In an open letter, the group said the current plans fall short of what is needed to safeguard the market.

Gustaf Hoffstedt, Secretary General of the association, added: “The appointment of a broad inquiry tasked with preventing leakage to the unlicensed gambling market would undoubtedly be this Government’s most important measure to protect and strengthen the legal, regulated gambling market, before Sweden goes to the polls in September next year.”

Leadership Shift at Spelinspektionen Signals New Direction

Spelinspektionen has seen a recent change in leadership. Johan Röhr has taken over as General Director, replacing Camilla Rosenberg who exited the role last week.

Röhr steps in at a critical time. With public trust and regulatory clarity all under scrutiny, his leadership will play a key role in shaping the next phase of Sweden’s gambling regulation.

The bans on Bitx Operations and Ryker mark a continued commitment to enforcing licensing laws. As reform discussions continue, Spelinspektionen is focused on building a safer gaming environment in Sweden.