Latvia’s Budget and Finance Committee has begun discussions on its long-awaited gambling reform package, presenting it for its first parliamentary reading. Key elements of the proposal include raising the minimum gambling age to 21 and implementing stricter monitoring requirements for players.
On October 21, the committee approved the amendments in principle, over two years after the government-backed bill was first referred to them on September 26, 2024. However, no specific implementation date has been established, and the current committee plans to defer the remaining legislative work to the next parliament. The new Saeima will decide which proposals will advance for further readings.
The proposed legislation introduces several significant rules affecting both gambling operators and players. The legal gambling age will be increased from 18 to 21, and individuals under 18 will be prohibited from purchasing retail lottery tickets. Furthermore, gambling venues will be required to pause operations between 6 AM and 9 AM.
Online gambling is also subject to new restrictions, limiting players to 21 hours of gaming within any 24-hour period, regardless of whether this time is spent in one continuous session or spread across multiple sessions. Registration requirements for visitors will be broadened, and video-recording retention periods will be extended from seven days to a minimum of 30 days. Additionally, the requirement for gaming halls will be raised to maintain a minimum of 20 to 25 machines within each facility.
The licensed gambling association in Latvia has expressed concerns, suggesting that the increase in the minimum number of gaming machines may lead to the closure of approximately 30 venues, risking around 240 jobs, and potentially decreasing annual gambling tax revenue by about €4.46 million. They have urged for adjustments, claiming that gambling behavior and market dynamics have evolved significantly since the legislative discussions commenced in 2019.
Until the legislation is passed and enacted, these provisions do not hold legal status. Industry representatives argue that the proposed targeted monitoring measures would be more proportionate compared to sweeping restrictions affecting all operators and players.
As the bill transitions to the upcoming parliament, the final configuration of Latvia's gambling regulatory framework remains uncertain. The 15th Saeima will determine if the proposed measures proceed, face significant alterations, or are ultimately discarded altogether.
