Italy’s Customs and Monopolies Agency (ADM) has outlined proposed updates to the country’s online gambling framework during an open hearing focused on live gaming and technical standards.
The session examined a draft update to the so-called Decree 666, the regulation governing online gambling with cash prizes, as Italy continues to implement its broader online gambling reform.
One of the main areas of interest for operators was the proposed framework for live gaming products. Under the draft rules, live games would face stricter technical requirements, including certification procedures and checks on equipment used to stream gaming sessions.
The proposal also clarifies how certain products will be classified. Card games offered outside tournament formats would fall under the skill games category and could be offered in both player-versus-player and single-player formats. However, the draft rules would prohibit shared jackpots between different licence holders, while allowing jackpots to be pooled within the same operator.
ADM confirmed that the RTP percentages will not change, but the verification system will be strengthened. If a game does not reach its theoretical RTP, a confidence interval will be applied. If the actual value does not comply with the RTP, the licence holder must pay the state the difference between the total stakes collected and the amount actually returned to players.
The draft also introduces changes to the certification framework, with procedures set to be outlined in separate technical guidelines rather than directly in the decree. The goal is to clarify the regulatory framework and simplify definitions. ADM will now circulate the draft to licence holders, allowing them to submit feedback before the final version is sent to the Council of State for review. Once approved, the decree will enter into force 14 days after publication in the Official Gazette.
Italy is currently in the process of reorganising its physical gambling network, with the main focus on regulations regarding distance and time restrictions for gaming venues
