The Liechtenstein Casino Association is urging authorities to reconsider regulations passed in January to restore a ‘fair and sustainable environment’ in which the sector may function, noting that politicians have imposed an effective prohibition on sustainable gaming floors.
Since the government implemented new rules on January 7, Liechtenstein’s six casinos have lost up to 85 percent of their earnings.
The Liechtenstein Casino Association President Markus Kaufmann and Vice President Philipp Nossek stated:
“Although the industry has prepared for a BSE decline within the 30% expected by the government, the absolute worst-case scenario has occurred within the first two weeks, with a minus of up to 85% of gross gaming revenue. The severity of the situation should not be underestimated. Without immediate action, the economic impact is unlikely to be mitigated, and the 50 million state income from the gambling tax would be significantly reduced.”
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In January, Switzerland and Liechtenstein began sharing a list of banned gamblers. Since its inception, Switzerland has excluded 100,000 gamblers. Players in both nations must now provide evidence of funds in order to play.
According to the Association, Liechtenstein casinos have a substantial disadvantage when compared to their Austrian and German competitors.
Due to the small population in Lichtenstein, casinos rely on overseas players. However, gamers in Austria and Germany who have been affected by the blocking data sharing are still able to play in Germany, with considerable numbers of customers migrating to casinos in Bregenz, Lindau, and Konstanz.
The Association explained that Swiss casinos can advertise in Liechtenstein, but Liechtenstein casinos in Switzerland are subject to severe advertising rules. They further stated that the regulated ratio of gaming tables to slot machines was eliminated in Switzerland but tightened in Liechtenstein.
Liechtenstein casinos will not be able to provide online gaming until at least 2028. There are also major variances in gambling taxes, with Austrian casinos paying a fixed gambling tax of 30%. The tax rate for large casinos in Liechtenstein is over 40%, whereas for smaller casinos it is approximately 35%.
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