Sweden's monopoly operator of lotteries and sports betting has established a single age requirement for those wishing to play any of its games. The regulation limiting sales to those 18 and over will take effect this year.

Previously, state-owned Svenska Spel allowed some of its products to be purchased regardless of the customer's age.

The move comes at a time when legal advisers to the European Court of Justice have been showing support for member states that have elected to stay with the sole-operator model when it comes to gaming. Among the factors being cited as legitimate reasons to allow a monopoly are protection of the consumer-a duty which is hard to claim if lottery products may be purchased by minors.

By GGB Staff

Staff writers for Global Gaming Business magazine. Las Vegas, Nevada.