Switzerland has further strengthened its tightly regulated online gambling sector with the approval of a new licence for Casino Locarno. Granted by the Eidgenössische Spielbankenkommission, the licence authorises the launch of the operator’s digital platform, CasiNeo.ch. This marks the tenth online casino licence issued under the country’s strict legal framework, which permits only land-based casino concessionaires to enter the online market. The development highlights Switzerland’s cautious yet progressive approach to digital gaming, balancing innovation, regulatory oversight, and consumer protection in a controlled environment.
Regulatory Approval Signals Market Expansion
The decision by the Eidgenössische Spielbankenkommission to grant an online licence to Casino Locarno represents another step in the gradual expansion of Switzerland’s regulated iGaming ecosystem.
The approval allows the operator to launch its online brand, CasiNeo.ch, including both its platform infrastructure and gaming portfolio. This milestone brings the total number of licensed online casinos in Switzerland to ten.
Strict Legal Framework Governs Market Entry
Switzerland’s online gambling sector operates under the Geldspielgesetz, a comprehensive legal framework designed to ensure transparency, player protection, and responsible gaming.
Under this legislation, only operators holding land-based casino concessions are eligible to apply for online licences. Additionally, approval must be secured at both federal and cantonal levels, reinforcing a multi-layered regulatory structure.
This controlled approach has limited market entry but ensured high compliance standards and reduced exposure to unregulated operators.
Strategic Ownership and Industry Positioning
Founded in 2002, Casino Locarno became part of the Baden Group in 2022, a move that strengthened its operational capabilities and market positioning.
The Baden Group is a significant player in the Swiss gaming sector, operating Casino Baden, which was the first to launch an online casino following market liberalization in 2019. This experience provides a strategic advantage as Casino Locarno enters the digital segment.
Controlled Growth of Switzerland’s Online Gambling Market
Since the implementation of the Geldspielgesetz, the Swiss government has adopted a measured approach to licensing, issuing a limited number of approvals to maintain regulatory oversight.
The reopening of the licensing window in 2025 has enabled new entrants, including partnerships such as Novomatic’s Admiral.ch initiative with Casino Mendrisio, to access the market under strict conditions.
This incremental expansion reflects a deliberate strategy to balance innovation with regulatory control.
Industry Implications and Future Outlook
The addition of a tenth licensed operator underscores the steady evolution of Switzerland’s iGaming sector. By restricting licences to established land-based operators, regulators aim to ensure accountability and maintain high operational standards.
While this approach may limit rapid market growth, it enhances long-term sustainability and consumer trust. As digital gaming demand continues to rise, Switzerland’s model could serve as a benchmark for jurisdictions seeking to combine market development with stringent regulatory safeguards.
The entry of Casino Locarno into the online space marks not just an expansion of offerings, but a continuation of a carefully calibrated regulatory journey.
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