E-sports: IIDEA submits proposals on regulating the industry to the Ministry of Culture

Yesterday an important event took place at the Ministry of Culture: “Esports ecosystem in Italy: rules, scenarios and sector growth prospects“Organized IDEA, The event, representing the Italian gaming industry, shed light on some important aspects of eSports in Italy. Following a post-pandemic decline in user numbers due to a return to outdoor activities, Italy remains the benchmark in Europe for esports, along with Poland and Spain, with significant fan presence and engagement. Approximately 24% of the Italian population between the ages of 16 and 65 are involved in eSports, which corresponds to almost 9 million people, in particular millennials (54%) and generation Z (19%). In the first half of 2022, more than 4 million people in Italy aged 16 to 65 devoted more than 4 hours per week to esports.

The debate began with consideration of the European Parliament’s resolution on eSports and video games, which defined eSports not only as part of the gaming sector, but also as part of the cultural and media landscape. This highlighted differences with sports, recognizing the digital nature of video games and the importance of intellectual property rights. During the event, the main players in the esports sector shared the problems and opportunities of Italy with representatives of cultural institutions.

It found that Italian companies face tougher regulations and greater burdens than companies in other European markets such as France, Spain and Germany, putting them at a competitive disadvantage in the European single market. The growth potential of the sector in Italy still remains untapped, with opportunities both in terms of developments in the country’s territory and from a social, educational and professional point of view.

In this regard, IIDEA presented recommendations and proposals for possible regulation of the sector in Italy, taking inspiration from the French model, one of the most competitive markets in Europe for e-sports and video games. The goal is to ensure that all video game competitions in Italy are conducted in accordance with the principles of economic freedom, consumer protection and the protection of minors. Undersecretary of State of the Ministry of Culture, Senator Lucia Borgonzoni, expressed maximum attention to the sector that combines creativity, entertainment and a large audience, emphasizing the importance of the further development of the Italian cultural and creative industries. IIDEA thanked the institutions for the opportunity to present their proposals for the regulation of eSports in Italy. Marco Saletta, President of IIDEA, emphasized the importance of enhancing the cultural, educational and social dimension of video games, including competitive ones, and expressed hope for removing barriers that limit competitiveness, encouraging national investment and creating a level playing field for Italian companies in the international market. market.