Wednesday, March 2nd, 2011 - Emily W
A loophole in the United Kingdom’s online gambling laws allows for operators to set up shop at offshore locations in order to avoid the steep gaming taxes required by the government. A reform of the country’s gambling laws, however, may require online bingo operators who are based offshore to obtain an additional gaming license in order to offer their services to UK residents.
Already, France and Italy have implemented the same type of gaming laws. Operators based in various locations around Europe must apply for a license to operator within these gaming markets. The UK is currently considering doing the same with its online gambling laws, which would certainly boost gaming revenues but could mean financial difficulties for bingo operators.
Because operating costs are so low for offshore bingo operators, they can afford to offer players generous promotions and bonuses. If they become subject to additional licensing fees, bingo players may be the ones to suffer. Cut backs will have to be made to supplement the costs of obtaining a licensing from the UK government, but online bingo operators always put customers first, so it is likely that players will not see many big changes.