Mikel Arana, the Director General of the Spanish Directorate for the Regulation of Gambling (DGOJ), has emerged as one of the key figures at the upcoming ICE World Gaming Forum, which is set to be the largest gathering of gambling industry leaders in history.
Hosted in Barcelona, this record-breaking event will cover 120,000 square meters and bring together the most influential personalities from the global gaming and betting sectors.
Arana joins an esteemed lineup of leaders, including Gavin Isaacs, CEO of Entain, Vicente Fox, the 62nd President of Mexico, Andrew Rhodes, CEO of the UK Gambling Commission, Isabelle Falque-Pierrotin, Chair of the French Gambling Authority, and many others. His participation underscores Spain’s growing prominence as a benchmark for effective gambling regulation in a rapidly evolving industry.
Known for his balanced and rigorous approach, Arana has positioned Spain as a model of responsible gambling oversight. Under his leadership, the DGOJ has implemented forward-thinking policies aimed at ensuring transparency, consumer protection, and sustainability in the gaming industry. At the ICE World Gaming Forum, Arana will participate in several pivotal discussions, including a panel titled “Growth, Risk & Regulation in the Online Gaming Industry.” This session will feature top executives from leading operators to address the challenges of delivering engaging player experiences while meeting evolving regulatory demands.
Arana’s insights are expected to be instrumental in shaping conversations around best practices in gambling regulation and supervision. Spain’s approach to tackling the social impact of gambling and protecting vulnerable populations has earned it international recognition as a leader in policy innovation.
The ICE World Gaming Forum is not just about regulation but also highlights technological advancements and innovation transforming the sector. Thought leaders such as Gavin Isaacs, who will deliver a keynote on business transformation, and other experts in artificial intelligence and sustainability will explore the future of gaming.
The forum boasts a diverse roster of participants, including Lisa Osofsky, former director of the UK’s Serious Fraud Office; Akhil Sarin, CMO of Stake; and Abbas Khambaty, Director of Themed Entertainment at Warner Bros. Discovery. This array of perspectives reflects the multifaceted nature of an industry constantly adapting to new challenges and opportunities.
This year’s ICE, often referred to as the "Davos of Gambling," serves as a vital platform for regulators, operators, and innovators to exchange ideas and set the industry’s course for the coming years. As the largest edition to date, it underscores the global importance of collaboration in navigating the complexities of gaming in a highly competitive, fast-paced environment.
Arana’s presence at the forum highlights his significant contributions not only at a national level but also in the broader global dialogue on gambling regulation. At a time when online betting and digital platforms are reshaping the industry, figures like Arana play a crucial role in ensuring that this transformation is responsible, inclusive, and sustainable.
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