The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) is taking a more aggressive stance on supplier compliance in 2025, emphasizing the importance of operators conducting thorough due diligence on their business partners. Speaking at the International Association of Gaming Advisors (IAGA) webinar on January 15, UKGC chief executive Andrew Rhodes underscored the need for greater vigilance to prevent partnerships with unlicensed operators.
Rhodes pointed to the recent case of Evolution Malta, which came under regulatory scrutiny after its games were found to be available on unlicensed platforms targeting UK players. He reiterated that if the Commission decides to revoke a supplier’s license, their operations will be halted immediately. “Whatever they are supplying you with, stops—immediately,” he warned, emphasizing the serious consequences for businesses relying on such suppliers.
To address illegal gambling operations, the UKGC has adopted an upstream disruption strategy, focusing on internet service providers (ISPs), payment processors, and software providers. The Commission’s latest approach includes covert test purchasing and advanced investigative techniques aimed at identifying and acting against those supporting illegal gambling activities.
Industry Responses and Compliance Challenges
Despite the UKGC’s firm stance, industry representatives have voiced concerns over the feasibility of tracking suppliers’ compliance effectively. Legal experts argue that it can be challenging for operators to confirm whether their suppliers are inadvertently serving unlicensed markets, raising questions about the level of responsibility placed on operators.
Richard Williams of Keystone Law commented that it is not always straightforward for licensed operators to determine whether their suppliers are engaging with unregulated entities. “It’s not easy to track every business relationship,” he noted, highlighting the difficulties operators face in maintaining full oversight.
Rhodes acknowledged these concerns but maintained that licensed operators should proactively assess their business relationships, stating that it is illogical for any legitimate business to engage with suppliers supporting illegal competition. He emphasized that compliance is a shared responsibility, and operators must ensure their partners align with regulatory expectations to avoid disruptions.
Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) chief executive Grainne Hurst reinforced the industry’s commitment to compliance, assuring that their supplier members are dedicated to avoiding partnerships with unlicensed entities. The UKGC, however, remains vigilant and prepared to take enforcement actions where necessary.
Looking Ahead: UKGC’s Regulatory Outlook for 2025
Beyond supplier oversight, Rhodes touched on broader regulatory themes for the year ahead, including the anticipated introduction of the Statutory Levy and the establishment of an Ombudsman. These changes are expected to add further complexity to an already contentious regulatory landscape.
Rhodes cautioned against the ongoing absolutist approach in industry debates, highlighting the importance of relying on comprehensive data rather than focusing on individual figures. He expressed concerns that entrenched positions within the industry could hinder meaningful progress in discussions surrounding gambling regulation.
As the UKGC intensifies its regulatory measures, licensed operators are urged to reassess their compliance strategies and take proactive steps to mitigate potential risks. With increasing scrutiny and enhanced investigative capabilities, the Commission remains steadfast in its commitment to maintaining a well-regulated and fair gambling market.
Source:
IAGA Webinar – Andrew Rhodes speech, gamblingcommission.gov.uk, January 16, 2025.