Spain: Official data suggests continued decline in problem gambling

The proportion of Spain’s adult population identified as potentially experiencing problem gambling has fallen to 1.4% in 2024. This is according to the latest data from the Spanish Observatory on Drugs and Addictions (OEDA).

The figure appears in the Ministry of Health’s latest Key Indicators on Drugs and Addictions 2026 report and continues a downward trend since the indicator was introduced in the survey.

According to the report, the proportion of adults identified as potentially experiencing problem gambling or gambling disorder was 2.6% in 2018, before falling to 2.2% in 2020, 1.7% in 2022 and 1.4% in 2024.

The OEDA report also notes that gambling participation does not necessarily result in problematic behaviour. It states that the development of gambling-related problems can depend on factors including the frequency and intensity of gambling, as well as individual characteristics.

Despite these findings outlining a downward trend, some Spanish regions are imposing restrictions on gambling venues over harm concerns.

Castilla-La Mancha, an autonomous community of Spain, is preparing to extend its moratorium on new casino licences until the end of 2031. The Regional Government is citing concerns over the protection of minors and vulnerable groups.

The current moratorium, introduced in 2023, applies to new authorisations for all types of gambling establishments and is due to remain in place until 2027.

Under the proposed changes, the measure would be elevated to law and extended until 2031, but would specifically apply to casinos.

In July, Barcelona City Council similarly proposed revised regulations to limit the expansion of gambling venues in vulnerable neighbourhoods.

The strategy focuses on restricting the opening of casinos, bingo halls and other gambling venues in 24 neighbourhoods identified as the most vulnerable and at highest risk of gambling-related harm by the Barcelona Public Health Agency (AESPB).