Bulgaria is moving forward with proposed amendments to its Gambling Act that aim to establish stricter advertising limits and increase taxes on gambling operations. Authorities regard these changes as crucial for reshaping the current legislation. Prime Minister Roumen Radev emphasized the government's intent to implement a more stringent regulatory framework.
“We want to introduce a new, far stricter model for regulatory control over the sector,” Radev stated. The key focus will be on reducing the visibility of gambling in everyday life, with a particular emphasis on limiting aggressive marketing that targets young people and children.
Radev outlined that these legislative changes are designed to enhance transparency, implement fair taxation, and minimize the negative impacts associated with gambling. The Prime Minister reiterated the necessity for a decreased presence of gambling in people's lives and stressed the need to prohibit aggressive advertising aimed at children.
Opposition parties We Continue the Change (PP) and Yes Bulgaria (DB) are advocating for a comprehensive ban on gambling advertising, along with imposing penalties of up to 150,000 euros for violations of these proposed advertising regulations. As it stands, potential restrictions could also extend to illuminated signage outside casinos and gaming venues.
While the current proposals suggest maintaining the status quo regarding sports sponsorships, changes could arise during the consultation period. Additionally, the government is contemplating further hikes in gambling taxes. Since January 2026, online gambling operators have been subject to a 25% tax on gross gaming revenue, following a recent 5% increase approved in the 2025 budget. This tax is in addition to the standard corporate tax rate of 10%.
