Spain: Valencian Community proposes zero-growth gambling policy

The Valencian Government has published a draft decree that will shape the regulatory framework of the region’s gambling sector in the coming years.

Built on an official impact assessment, the proposed regulation establishes a “zero-growth” framework, halting the issuance of new licences for gaming halls, betting shops and bingo venues. If adopted in its current form, the number of establishments in the region will remain capped, with no provision for new market entrants.

The draft allows for the relocation of existing venues, enabling operators to move their businesses to new premises. This measure is primarily intended to help companies comply with legally mandated distance requirements from educational centres and other sensitive locations, without increasing the overall number of venues.

In the hospitality sector, the Government is maintaining the quota system it has implemented since 2002. No new type-B machines will be authorised in bars and cafés, with activity limited to technical replacements.

The regulatory framework includes a provision for periodic review. The Valencian Government commits to reassessing the measures every five years, based on updated reports evaluating social and public health factors, to determine whether adjustments are necessary.

The new regulatory framework is not yet finalised, as it has been opened to a 15-day public consultation period following its official publication.

During this time, any interested citizen or organisation can review the full text on the Government's Participation Portal and submit comments, suggestions, or observations.

The Spanish regulator DGOJ recently presented a Safe Gambling Programme for 2026–2030. The measures target youth protection, research into emerging technologies such as AI and strengthened collaboration with treatment providers.