Estonia latest to legalize online gambling
Submitted on Mon, 2010-01-11 11:22The tiny European state of Estonia has just legalized online gambling, following the example of a number of other European countries. The government has seen the benefit that online gambling can bring to its taxation revenues. This will put it in a better position to join the Eurozone following the devastating effects of the recession.
Online gambling companies based in Estonia are legal as of 2010. In 2011 they will be joined by international gambling operators. The Baltic Poker Festival was recently held in the country, and it is thought the success of this event could have influenced the decision.
One of the biggest winners from the recent decision has been Playtech, which has formed a partnership with Estonia’s Olympic Casino Group to set itself up in the country. Mor Weizer, the executive manager of Playtech, said: “We are truly glad of this opportunity to start our partnership with Olympic as the leading casino entertainment provider in Central and Eastern Europe.”
Estonia is desperate to join the EU, but it has to meet strict requirements before doing so. The country’s economy has suffered heavily recently, and opening up its online gambling market will allow the government to see huge tax benefits which will in turn increase its chances of joining the EU.
Online gambling companies based in Estonia are legal as of 2010. In 2011 they will be joined by international gambling operators. The Baltic Poker Festival was recently held in the country, and it is thought the success of this event could have influenced the decision.
One of the biggest winners from the recent decision has been Playtech, which has formed a partnership with Estonia’s Olympic Casino Group to set itself up in the country. Mor Weizer, the executive manager of Playtech, said: “We are truly glad of this opportunity to start our partnership with Olympic as the leading casino entertainment provider in Central and Eastern Europe.”
Estonia is desperate to join the EU, but it has to meet strict requirements before doing so. The country’s economy has suffered heavily recently, and opening up its online gambling market will allow the government to see huge tax benefits which will in turn increase its chances of joining the EU.