ADM, Lollobrigida: Public Gaming Reform Focused on Health Coming by December

Italian Gaming Authority Outlines Plans to Combat Problem Gambling

During the General Assembly of the Customs and Monopolies Agency (ADM), Mario Lollobrigida, director of the gaming office, presented an updated overview of the gaming sector’s evolution and the planned actions to ensure a balance between economic sustainability and public health protection.

Lollobrigida explained that the gaming sector is undergoing a profound transformation. He emphasized that the assembly provided an opportunity to collectively address future challenges. The Agency, he stated, is constantly working to minimize the risk of gambling degenerating into addiction.

Lollobrigida referenced a 2023 CNR research study, which indicated that approximately 3% of the Italian population could be classified as problem gamblers. Specifically, 1.7% of gamblers fall into a moderate or severe risk category, while 4% are considered at low risk. However, only 1% of gaming accounts show activity that might suggest pathological behavior.

“Responsible gaming is a value shared with public gaming operators,” Lollobrigida stressed. “It is their responsibility to avoid practices that encourage compulsive gambling and to adopt strategies that limit excess.”

In his address, the director highlighted the Agency’s commitment to implementing the regulatory reorganization of the sector, which the Government expects to complete by December.

Lollobrigida pointed out that Legislative Decree No. 41 of 2024 dedicates Article 14 to player protection, while Article 15 introduces concrete tools to combat problem gambling. ADM has already prepared the draft decree for the reorganization of physical gaming, placing player protection at the center.

Finally, Lollobrigida reiterated the Agency’s commitment to maintaining a constant dialogue with trade associations, foundations, and research institutions, with the goal of implementing every useful measure to contain the risks associated with gambling.