Each month IGN delivers the latest in international policy developments that could affect the I-gaming business. From dealings between nations to actions taken by international organizations, it's a digest of the latest in global policy.
FSA To Free Mobile Industry From e-Money Directive
Last month the Financial Services Authority in the UK indicated to mobile operators that their industry would not be subject to the European e-money directive, which classifies pre-paid accounts as e-money and does not permit subscribers to participate in third party m-commerce applications like shopping or viewing certain content. However, until there is written confirmation of the matter, mobile operators are unlikely to lift restrictions on third party companies that wish to offer such services. The FSA's decision could lead to an explosion in m-commerce.
EU Parliament Passes Computer-Implemented Inventions Patent Law
The European parliament approved the Directive on the Patentability of Computer-Implemented Inventions after making significant amendments. Patents on business or software processes are not protected from use in other member states under existing law, so the directive was introduced to clarify what could be patented under the European Patent Office. The directive was harshly criticized for not clearly defining the limits of what may be patented, and so was amended to address the problems. Now, however, many speculate that the amendments will make passing the bill through the rest of the EU lawmaking process difficult, since Commissioner Frits Bolkestein could halt it and instead attempt to negotiate an inter-governmental treaty.
Slovenia Changes Gambling Bill
Changes in Slovenia's gambling act took effect on October 22, permitting foreign money to enter the country after it joins the EU in early 2004. All EU citizens will be able to obtain licenses in the gaming industry, though non-EU citizens will still not be allowed to invest. The Slovene government will be able to grant two licenses for classical gaming, 15 licenses for special games in casinos, and 45 licenses for special games in gaming saloons. All licensing fees will be raised from 2 percent to 2.2 percent, and the money will be allocated toward charities and sports organizations. The country currently has 12 casinos, which are managed by five companies, and over 30 gaming saloons.
Thailand Wants To Bring Betting Above Ground
Thailand could possibly legalize both casino and soccer betting in the future. Justice Pongthep Thepkanchana has given an open invitation to anyone who would like to provide input in next month's drafting of an anti-corruption bill, which might legalize gambling in order to eliminate the underground gaming network that reaped an estimated $452 billion last year. Thailand would like to redirect much of that money flow toward social development. The Government Lottery Office is already examining possible models for a legal soccer betting system. Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra told the press the government would consider legalizing casinos, but added that casinos could be dangerous and that the government doesn't need the money.