Norway’s Gambling Monopoly in Crosshairs: Progress Party’s Bold Push

(AsiaGameHub) –   By: Gavin Thorne

Progress Party’s Himanshu Gulati staked a claim on Norway’s gambling policy. He vowed to end the longstanding monopoly once the party returns to power. Licensing model tops their culture agenda.

The party first called for monopoly end in 2021. MP Silje Hjemdal earlier warned money leaks abroad. Labour re-elected in 2025, but Progress gained 48 seats.

Gulati cited past deregulations: cash poker legalized, Segway ban scrapped. Finland’s iGaming market launches 2027; 50 ops already applied.

Monopoly’s effectiveness is under fire. Offshore gambling grows, Norsk Tipping faces issues like payout errors. Quality and user experience also questioned.

Lack of coordinated problem gambling steps noted. Norway’s action plan, plus match-fixing opposition, highlight needed reforms.

Political winds shift. Norway’s gambling landscape set for big changes as Progress pushes licensing.