International work is becoming increasingly important as the globalisation of the gambling market gathers speed.

We have to ensure that both our international colleagues and the gambling industry have adequate knowledge of the Norwegian model and the tools at our disposal in our efforts to combat gambling problems. This is important if our regulations are to have the desired effect.

International dialogue and cooperation

We are in regular dialogue with authorities and industry parties in other parts of the world, and we attend international meetings and give talks at conferences. Dialogue and cooperation with international colleagues help us to protect our own gambling market, but also to learn from experience gained in other markets.

Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto are competing against large international betting companies that actively seek to recruit Norwegian customers in spite of Norway’s prohibition on such marketing. Today, many authorities require operators applying for a licence in their jurisdiction to respect the regulations of other countries and stay away from markets where they are not wanted. That is why it is important that we inform these authorities if their licensees violate Norwegian rules.

Our international work is also important because of the growing impact of technological developments on the gambling industry and the increasing globalisation of the market.

Our international presence

We regularly attend international forums and conferences. Gambling and Foundation Authority staff are also active in the following organisations:

  • The International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR)
  • Gaming Regulators European Forum (GREF)
  • World Lottery Association (WLA)
  • European Foundation Centre (EFC)

We also maintain a good dialogue with international colleagues on specific issues of importance to our work. In the past year, we have been in contact with government authorities and other experts in Finland, Denmark, Sweden, the USA and the UK, among others.
The Gambling Authority also participates in a World Health Organization (WHO) expert group. This group was appointed in 2019 and addresses public health, gaming and gambling disorders.