Dozens of Vantaa officials have put forward a proposal to develop a major gambling and entertainment hub near Helsinki-Vantaa Airport as the country prepares for market liberalisation.
Even after the gambling reform, casino operations and slot machine games will remain under Veikkaus’ monopoly in Finland. Local officials believe it would be timely to further open the gambling market, particularly from the perspective of gaming tourism.
A total of 31 councillors in Vantaa City Council have called for a study into establishing an “international experience, entertainment and gaming hub” in the Aviapolis area. Minister of Climate and Environment Sari Multala backed the proposal.
The initiative, written by National Coalition Party councillor Victor Snellman, states: “The phased opening of Finland’s gambling system into a licence-based market offers Vantaa a billion-euro opportunity.
“Although online gambling will open first, Vantaa must be an active player at the forefront and provide an internationally competitive environment for high value tourism and entertainment. The global trend towards integrated resort models must be considered, even though current legislation still restricts casino operations.”
Snellman says one of the motivations for the proposal is Vantaa’s challenging economic structure. The municipality relies heavily on the construction industry and the airport, both of which have faced difficulties.
Another factor is that Vantaa has lost many investments to neighbouring municipalities. Snellman would like the gambling and entertainment hub to demonstrate that permits can be secured quickly when needed. He says he has not discussed the initiative with Veikkaus or other gambling operators.
According to the proposal, the location of Helsinki-Vantaa Airport is “ideal for an international entertainment and skill-based gaming hub”. It suggests that high-level poker tournaments and gaming tourism are key drivers of tourism, particularly in Asian markets.
As the initiative has more than 25 signatories, it will now proceed to official preparation by city officials. It will then be reviewed by the city board.
Ahead of its regulated gambling market launching on 1 July 2027, Finland has authorised a new regulatory body with broader powers to oversee all gaming operations in the country, replacing the National Police Board
