Latvia Blacklists Major Gambling Operators

The Latvian Department of Supervision of Lotteries and Games (IAUI) has granted more than 160 online gambling licenses to operators since 2011. In spite of the considerable influx, there is still a distinct lack of linguistic coverage for Latvian players.

Big Brands Outlawed

As of August 2014, the IAUI has collated a blacklist of unlicensed gambling operators continuing to provide services to Latvia residents. The most prominent names on the list include 888, bwin.party, bet365, Betfair, PokerStars, and William Hill. Overall, the list is a mix of casino and poker operators.

More Names Coming

At present, more than 20 prominent names currently feature on the list. The IAUI is said to have more operators in mind for a later expansion of the list. Latvia is not the first Eastern European country to fight back against unlicensed operators, with Russia and Bulgaria having already taken action.

Financial Institutions Involved

IAUI has added the operators to the list in line with the Gaming and Lottery Law 2006. Changes were made to the law in 201 to allow for internet service providers to block the activity of gaming operators. Financial institutions have also been drawn into the affair, with the Latvian government ordering them to block all transactions attempted between Latvian residents and offshore operators.

Once a Haven

Latvia was initially a haven for reserved for domestic online gambling operators. After first legalising online gambling in 2003, the market was later opened up to foreign entities in 2011, based on regulatory changes made by the European Union (EU).

IAUI Sought ARJEL Advice

Latvia appears resolute in its desire to restore to the exclusive conditions that once existed in the country. Prior to this latest action, IAUI leader Signe Birne spoke with his French counterpart from ARJEL to seek advice in dealing with unlicensed operators. A stern approach was likely recommended.