The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) has launched new gambling risk limits and a self-assessment test designed to help players manage their gambling. This initiative occurs at a time when Finland prepares to open its market to international operators in July 2027. The new “2-4-2” rule recommends players spend no more than 2% of net income on gambling, play no more than 4 days per month, and avoid regularly playing more than 2 game types.
The announcement comes as THL warns that gambling advertising and customer acquisition will increase significantly under the new licensing system. This will shift emphasis “from harm prevention towards gambling revenue”. THL Research Chief Sari Castrén stated: “Gambling involves risks and ultimately the house always wins. 2-4-2 is everyone’s credit line for managing their own gambling.”
THL’s intervention addresses a worsening trend. Finland’s problem gambling rate has risen from 3% to 4.2% of the adult population (approximately 151,000 people), while 13% of gamblers are now classified as “at-risk,” up from 10% in 2019. Young adults aged 18-29 face the highest risk at 6.9%.
The 2-4-2 framework is adapted from Canada’s internationally recognised Lower-Risk Gambling Guidelines (LRGG), adjusted for the Finnish context following two years of academic research, including quantitative surveys and qualitative focus groups.
With 30-50 international operators expected to enter Finland’s €2.4 billion gambling market from July 2027, players will face a dramatically expanded range of choices. THL’s self-assessment test (currently available in Finnish, with Swedish and English versions planned for spring 2026) provides one layer of protection. But choosing casinos that offer robust responsible gambling tools is equally critical.
