Online gambling legalisation delayed in Portugal

Hopes that Portugal’s parlous economic situation may spur government efforts to liberalise online gambling next year have been dashed by the news that the project has been taken off next year’s budget plans, suggesting that it will be 2015 before any real movement is seen.

Government spokesmen said this week that the issue was too sensitive to action without a thorough examination and inclusive debate, and that it will be handled through distinct and separate legislation at a date to be advised.

In October there was much media discussion around the possibility that the Portuguese taxman could reap Euro 250 million from online gambling operators seeking licensing.

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