Norway’s government has doubled down on its state monopoly over online gambling, rejecting calls for a more competitive market. The Norwegian Gaming Authority (NGA) recently introduced new measures to block unlicensed platforms and strengthen enforcement against illegal operators.

    Critics argue that the monopoly, held by Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto, limits consumer choice and drives players to offshore websites. A recent survey found that nearly 30% of Norwegian gamblers use unregulated platforms, raising concerns about player safety and lost tax revenue.

    The government has defended its approach, emphasizing that the monopoly prioritizes harm reduction. However, pressure from industry stakeholders and consumer advocacy groups is likely to persist.