University Carlos III of Madrid (UC3M) conducted a research study where it found that problem gambling rate in Spain is just 0.3 percent.
The study suggests that this is the lowest problem gambling rate in the world considering the fact that almost 84.0 percent of Spanish population takes part in one or the other form of gambling yearly.
On this study, Minister of Consumer Affairs, Alberto Garzón stated that Spain is leading the way and that he expects other countries to follow the move.
The study also noted a decrease in the number of gamblers post 2007 economic crisis, which was earlier 90 percent approximately while observing the average age to be below 35 years.
The study also highlighted different modes through which gambling is done by Spaniards and which lottery operations do they prefer.
This study might prove to be relevant, especially in the period where government is preparing to bring-in new restrictions on gambling advertising and promotions, including a ban on sports sponsorship, which may be tighter than before.
José Antonio Gómez Yáñez, Professor of Sociology at UC3M, stated that, “Gambling is subject to much debate, like many productive activities, which emphasises the need for this type of study which provides an objective view, based on data, for public opinion, administrations and the media. It is about offering real and updated data on gambling as part of the habits of Spanish society. It must be said that the vast majority of those who play do so responsibly, they know that it has a cost, like entering a show”, reported Focus Gaming News.
Alejandro Landaluce, Chief Executive of industry association Consejo Empresarial del Juego (Cejuego) said, “Governments are increasingly concerned about a potentially inappropriate level of gambling participation in society and we, as representatives of the sector, share these concerns. For this reason, we support this type of scientific study that allows us to know the reality of social behaviour towards gambling, beyond individual or collective perceptions, in order to act in those areas that are necessary within our responsibility”, reported Focus Gaming News.