On April 30, 2024, the National Assembly of Bulgaria unanimously adopted important changes to the Gambling Law, which effectively prohibit gambling advertising in various media, including television, radio, print and electronic media.
This decision, supported by 200 MPs from all parliamentary factions, represents a significant update in the regulation of gambling advertising within the country.
Important details of the changes made:
1. A complete ban on gambling advertising, with the exception of state-owned Sports Totalizer games that support sports and cultural initiatives.
2. Restrictions on advertising locations: advertising on billboards is allowed only at a distance of more than 300 meters from educational institutions.
3. Acceptability of advertising in gambling establishments: advertising is permitted in gaming halls, sports facilities and on sports equipment, excluding content aimed at children. Ads must contain a warning about possible gambling addiction.
Additional measures:
— Restrictions on the location of gambling establishments: access to gaming halls and casinos is allowed only in settlements with a population of more than 10,000 people, with some exceptions for resorts and points near the border.
— Restrictions on online betting: Restrictions on online betting have been introduced and measures have been established to monitor illegal gambling advertising by the Electronic Media Council in cooperation with the National Revenue Agency to ensure compliance with sanctions.
Implementation and impact of this law:
— Effective date: The Advertising Law will come into force three days after publication. Gambling halls in small towns are given a grace period of three years.
— Economic and Social Issues: The ban caused significant backlash from media groups and associations in the gambling industry. Critics say it could seriously hit media outlets’ revenues and undermine their independence. There have also been concerns about a rise in illegal gambling activity due to the restrictions.
Position of the Association of Bulgarian Radio and Television Broadcasters: They argue that a ban on gambling advertising could put them in a difficult financial situation, highlighting the importance of income from such advertising for their financial stability.
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