Bulgaria’s government proposes complete ban on advertising gambling games
Bulgaria's Cabinet approved amendments to completely ban gambling advertising, with limited trademark exceptions for sponsorships and tighter licensing rules.Summary
On November 11, Bulgaria's Cabinet approved proposed amendments to the Gambling Act that would completely ban advertising of gambling games, aiming to prevent addiction and protect vulnerable groups. Limited use of gambling operators' trademarks would be allowed only in sports sponsorships and support for culture, healthcare, and education. The amendments suspend affiliate operators, introduce one-time state fees for gaming equipment licences (50,000 euro for five years, 100,000 euro for 10 years), and increase the alternative corporate tax for land-based casinos from 2027, replacing it with a two-component state tax from 2028. Online betting licensees would pay a minimum variable fee of 100,000 euro per month. Foreign online betting entities must have a place of business in Bulgaria to track financial flows. Payment institutions, banks, and e-money companies would be required to make mandatory cash contributions for gambling-related transactions. The bill also bans cash payments between construction companies and subcontractors to limit the shadow economy. Additionally, prevention of gambling addiction in education is planned through information campaigns and teaching materials.
(Source：The Sofia Globe)