Peliviranomaiset

Peliviranomaiset is a Finnish term that translates to "gaming authorities" or "gaming regulators." It refers to the official bodies responsible for overseeing and regulating the gambling industry within Finland. The primary authority in this domain is the Finnish National Bureau of Investigation (Poliisi), specifically its gaming supervision unit. This unit is tasked with ensuring that all forms of gambling, including lotteries, casinos, and online betting, are conducted legally, fairly, and in a manner that prevents problem gambling and criminal activity.

The responsibilities of Peliviranomaiset include issuing licenses to operators, monitoring their compliance with regulations, investigating illegal gambling operations, and enforcing penalties for violations. They also play a role in promoting responsible gaming practices and protecting consumers from potential harm. The Finnish gambling market is unique in that it is largely state-controlled, with Veikkaus Oy holding a monopoly on most domestic gambling operations. However, the regulatory framework also addresses the challenges posed by international operators offering services to Finnish consumers. The aim is to maintain a controlled environment that generates revenue for public good while safeguarding the well-being of players.