Paf Joins Finland's Gaming Association

Paf has joined the Finnish gaming association Rahapeliala ry. The Åland-based operator announced its membership at the Åktoberfest seminar it held in Helsinki. The company also celebrated its 60th anniversary at the same event. The association represents companies offering online gambling and accepted Veikkaus as a member in September 2026.

Paf said its experience in Finland and other regulated markets will contribute to the association's work. According to the company, the industry needs to present its shared concerns to society with one strong, unified voice. Sverker Skogberg, Senior Vice President for public affairs, said they hope the association's work will gain strength ahead of the market opening.

The seminar discussed how illegal operators can be kept outside the new framework, advertising rules, and the proposals of the Competition and Consumer Authority and the National Institute for Health and Welfare. Riku Buri, Research Director at the Competition and Consumer Authority, outlined two priorities for policymakers: preventing illegal gambling and introducing central gambling limits covering all companies. Central limits would prevent players from moving between brands to get around controls.

The new Gambling Act will open online betting, slots, casino games and money bingo to licensed competition from 1 July 2027. Veikkaus will keep its exclusive rights over lotto-type games, scratch cards and physical slot machines. Licensing and supervision will pass to the Finnish Supervision Authority once the competitive market begins.

The law introduces mandatory player identity verification. A central self-exclusion system covering all licence holders will also be made available to players. In addition, advertising is being restricted, including sponsorships and channels aimed at minors.