Recognizing the value of a responsible and safe casino industry to Switzerland’s economy, the Swiss federal council has announced that all 21 land-based and 10 online casinos in the country will get new 20-year licenses next year, Casino News Daily reported May 30.
The existing licenses are due to expire this year. The recently approved new casinos in Prilly and Winterthur will be included in the 20-year licenses, the council decided.
Swiss Casino Association President Gerhard Pfister enthusiastically commented, “The granting of the new concessions is a milestone.”
He continued, “The federal government has recognized that today’s casinos ensure safe and responsible operations and generate great economic benefits in their region.”
With the recent addition of casinos in Zurich, Schaffhausen, St. Gallen, and Pfäffiko, the association now represents all gaming operations in the Swiss Confederation and the incoming casinos also plan to apply for membership.
Pfister commented, “I’m pleased that Swiss Casinos has joined the association, and with it, the entire casino industry can speak with one voice.”
Last year’s casino market saw the brick-and-mortar sector lose revenue slightly, while online gaming grew significantly, such that the combined gross gaming revenue declined 1.1 percent from 2022.
This year, by contrast, the online casinos achieved CHF286 million ($316.40 million) in GGR, a 14.3 percent climb. Swiss consumers’ shift toward online casinos is similar to what is happening in other countries and industries.
The gaming industry paid 3 percent more in taxes last year. The Loterie Romande public lottery increased its net profit CHF5.1 million, meaning more money for charities.
