Mozzartbet Group, a Serbian iGaming operator, has announced it will cease operations under its Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) licence effective October 1, 2026. The company plans to shut down the Mozzart.com brand along with its affiliate programme, redirecting its focus toward markets where it holds domestic licenses.
This move marks the withdrawal of one of the major brands in the Balkans from the list of MGA-endorsed operators in the region. This trend reflects a broader shift in the industry, as several companies operating in grey markets have recently opted for local licences. While an MGA permit allows access to certain tolerant markets, a domestic license is becoming increasingly advantageous, especially as regulatory enforcement intensifies.
Mozzartbet has held an MGA licence since 2019 and is the second operator this month to announce its departure from operating under this licence, as it is no longer considered effective. The primary motivation behind this decision is the prioritization of domestic markets. Established in 2001 in Belgrade, Mozzartbet operates within Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Romania, and North Macedonia, as well as in Ghana, Kenya, and Nigeria, with all operations in these regions remaining unaffected.
Mozzart has been a significant player in markets with rapidly evolving regulations. Domestic licenses in Serbia, Croatia, and Romania allow operating companies to function legally and ensure they are taxed in accordance with regulations. Over the past two decades, Mozzart has built a strong retail presence and brand recognition within these markets. The .com platform operating under the Maltese licence faces higher regulatory risks compared to its locally licensed counterparts.
Recent activity from the MGA highlighted a list of 11 website URLs that no longer hold a licence. The authority stated that these findings do not relate to the 11 websites identified in August 2026.
