As one of the first brands to launch in the Portuguese regulated market, PokerStars will combine forces with other market leaders within APAJO, the only trade association representing entities operating under a local license, including Betano, Betclic, Bwin, Casino Portugal, ESC Online. and Solverde.pt.
APAJO has been working on many fronts since its inception in 2018. Representing its locally licensed members in discussions with regulators, governments and legislators, it has also developed a Responsible Gaming Manual, with members pledging to take steps beyond those required by the law.
APAJO has also been proactively involved in the future outlook of online gambling advertising in Portugal, having joined the Portuguese advertisers association, the national advertising self-regulatory organization, and recently became a signatory to an MoU led by by the European Commission on online advertising.
Joining APAJO aligns with Flutter's strategy of investing to build leadership positions in regulated markets. Ricardo Domingues (photo), Chairman of the Board of APAJO commented that "APAJO is pleased to welcome to its group one of the main international brands and an operator that has been in the market since 2016."
João Saraiva, Strategy and Planning Manager for Portugal at PokerStars, added: “We are delighted to join APAJO and look forward to sharing our experience from other licensed jurisdictions to support APAJO in promoting a safe and responsible gaming environment. We have big ambitions for this market and are looking forward to working together with APAJO.”
