Policy & Regulation
Bulgaria
From Licensing to Advertising - the State Is Rewriting Gambling Rules
A new taxation model for land-based casinos and gaming halls, a broader advertising ban and additional reporting requirements are proposed in amendments to the Gambling Act, approved by the Council of Ministers and submitted to Parliament on 11 November. The package covers both land-based and online gambling and includes a mechanism to support sport.
Bulgaria
Gambling Between New Restrictions and the Illegal Market
The proposed legislative changes turn the spotlight on player protection and oversight of unlicensed websites.
Malta
Malta’s New VAT Rules Change the Financial Equation for the Gaming Industry
Since 1 October 2026, gaming companies in Malta have been operating under new VAT rules. Fewer services are now exempt, but the changes also offer opportunities to reduce costs.
Illegal Gambling and Regulatory Oversight - Bulgaria and the European Experience
Portugal’s experience shows why restrictions on licensed operators need to be supported by capable institutions and consistent action against illegal gambling.
The Illegal Market Has Tripled Since 2020: Why Are Regulatory Restrictions Not Enough?
The Bulgarian government has announced a complete ban on gambling advertising, but a new European analysis highlights another side of the regulatory debate: the risk that excessive restrictions on the licensed sector could drive some consumers towards the illegal market.
Draft amendments to Bulgaria’s Gambling Act propose a broad advertising ban and higher fees
The bill to amend and supplement the Gambling Act was published yesterday on the public consultation portal
Gambling Ad Bans Face Scrutiny as Illegal Operators Retain Online Reach
Evidence from European markets is fuelling debate over whether tighter advertising restrictions protect consumers—or make licensed operators harder to distinguish from illegal competitors.
UK Illegal Gambling Taskforce Offers a Potential Blueprint for Bulgaria
Britain’s new approach targets the payments, advertising and partnerships that help unlicensed gambling operators reach consumers.
Portugal Targets Illegal Online Gambling as Europe Faces Growing Black Market Pressure
Portugal is preparing new legislation to strengthen its response to unlicensed online gambling, amid concerns over consumer safety, lost public revenue and unfair competition.