Italy’s on-line playing trade is bracing for considered one of its most far-reaching overhauls in current historical past. With the federal government’s Reorganisation of Gambling decree advancing and the ADM’s new framework set to take impact in November 2025, the nation’s iGaming market is on the verge of a change that can outline operations by way of the subsequent decade.
A Consolidated Market Under New Rules
The new framework imposes a harder entry barrier for operators searching for a foothold in Italy. Licenses now price €7 million and final for 9 years, alongside taxes of 24.5% on betting and 25.5% on on line casino gross gaming income. Additional obligations embrace an annual payment of three% of internet gaming income and a 0.2% accountable playing contribution, capped at €1 million.
Currently, solely 46 operators have superior to the second stage of licensing — lower than half the earlier 93. Once the system takes full impact in March 2026, these remaining licensees will function beneath far stricter compliance requirements and new reporting necessities.
The ADM’s (Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli) reforms additionally reshape market construction by implementing a “one domain per license” rule. This measure eliminates over 350 “skin” or affiliate-operated domains, shrinking the variety of energetic betting web sites from 407 to simply 52. Of these, 315 had been run by Italian companies and 92 by worldwide corporations.
ADM officers defined that “The reform signals a turning point for the online gaming market, which — also in response to growing public concern — aims to raise safety standards for both operators and players.”
Larger Operators Poised to Benefit
The consolidation closely favors established corporations with robust monetary backing. Global teams like Flutter Entertainment, Entain, bet365, and Lottomatica — already important gamers in Italy — are anticipated to keep a dominant presence. Flutter, for example, controls Sisal, Snaitech, and Betfair Exchange, all beneath its Italian umbrella.
While the ADM cites transparency and participant security as the principle targets, many trade observers see the stricter framework as one which advantages large-scale enterprises over smaller entrants. The Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) has already collected €365 million in licensing income — exceeding its unique objective of €300–350 million — highlighting the federal government’s success in monetizing the sector’s restructuring.
Francesco Papallo, Altenar’s Regional Director for Italy, believes this surroundings might in the end strengthen the trade. “We expect a more consolidated and transparent market, committed to long-term investment, innovation, and responsible gaming practices,” he stated. “In recent months, we’ve already witnessed major international groups making strategic acquisitions in Italy, which has further reduced the number of active operators.”
He added that, “This consolidation has resulted in a significant portion of the market being absorbed by large-scale entities, leaving less room for smaller operators.”
New Compliance, Player Protections, and Design Shifts
For bettors, the ADM’s new system introduces necessary security measures. Players will quickly have to affirm new phrases and set private deposit and wagering limits earlier than putting bets. These self-imposed thresholds should be submitted inside six months, or betting privileges shall be suspended — although reactivation stays attainable for up to three years.
Beyond regulation, operators are being pushed to innovate. Papallo emphasised that the multi-brand mannequin will disappear as corporations give attention to constructing stronger single-brand identities. Mobile-first experiences, AI-driven personalization, and enhanced accountable gaming instruments are anticipated to grow to be central to participant engagement.
He famous that “Features such as Bet Builders, cashout, and real-time player markets — especially in football and basketball — will continue to gain popularity,” including that “We also anticipate growing demand for live streaming, which increasingly enhances player engagement.”
Meanwhile, the federal government is increasing oversight to curb unlawful betting by creating a “cyber security shield” in cooperation with state-owned tech supplier SOGEI. Public web venues — together with cafes and gaming lounges — shall be required to set up this protecting software program or face penalties.
Looking Toward 2026
The upcoming SiGMA Rome occasion (3–6 November, Fiera Roma) will probably highlight these sweeping modifications, with Altenar among the many exhibitors prepared to talk about the street forward. “Prepare your brand for Italy’s next chapter. Our local team is ready to help you navigate new regulations and unlock growth in 2026 and beyond. Let’s meet at SiGMA Rome,” the corporate introduced.
With fewer opponents, longer concessions, and stricter transparency guidelines, Italy’s restructured iGaming panorama guarantees a smaller however extra secure taking part in subject — one which favors accountable development and sustainable innovation.
Sources:
Italy’s iGaming shake-up: what operators need to know before 2026, gamesbras.com, October 28, 2025.
