Bulgaria Bans All Gambling Advertising

The Bulgarian government has approved draft amendments that include an overall ban on gambling advertising and increased taxes and fees throughout the gaming sector. The proposals, approved by the Council of Ministers on November 11, will now be forwarded to Parliament for consideration. Bulgaria Seeks to Curb Gambling Exposure Among Vulnerable Groups The proposed restrictions would apply to advertisements for gambling products, licensed operators and their associated brands. The ban would cover all television, radio, print publications, online platforms and outdoor advertising. Under the legislation, gambling companies would be able to brand a limited number of sponsorship arrangements. This includes partnerships with sports clubs, federations, associations and organizations. Other sponsorships and financial contributions in the cultural, health and educational sectors would also be possible. However, the government is trying to restrict how those sponsorships are displayed in TV broadcasts and online coverage of sponsored events. The amendments would also end the activity of affiliate operators promoting gambling products. The measure is designed to stop companies from advertising gambling services via third-party marketing channels. The government said existing restrictions on advertising have not gone far enough to reduce exposure to gambling advertisements. The new measures are intended to curb gambling-related harm, especially among children and other vulnerable groups. Bulgarian Gambling Operators Face Higher Costs From 2027 The legislative package also includes major financial changes for gambling operators. Starting in 2027, land-based casinos and gaming halls will be taxed more. The charges will be replaced in 2028 by a two-part state fee: a fixed payment and a variable part linked to betting turnover and payouts. Online gambling operators will have to pay a variable monthly state fee of a minimum of EUR 100,000 ($110,781). The government will also hike licensing fees, social responsibility contributions and financial penalties for regulatory breaches. New licensing fees will also be charged to companies that manufacture, import, distribute or service gaming equipment. A five-year license will cost EUR 50,000 ($55,392), and a ten-year license will cost EUR 100,000 ($110,781). The amendments also envisage increased fees for the issuance and maintenance of gambling licenses. Additionally, contributions aimed at promoting responsible gambling policies will grow, with the revenue divided equally between the ministries of sport, health and education. Foreign companies offering online gambling in Bulgaria will have to have a permanent business presence in the country. The requirement is intended to enhance tax reporting and enable authorities to compare declared revenues with betting activity and player payouts. Furthermore, banks, payment institutions and electronic money providers that deal with gambling-related transactions will be required to make financial contributions. Bulgaria Plans Real-Time Gambling Monitoring and Addiction Prevention Measures Another important measure is stricter supervision of gambling operations. The government is also planning to set up electronic links between the gaming systems of the operators and the National Revenue Agency. This would allow authorities to get information on bets, payouts, and gaming revenue. The package also includes educational initiatives to prevent gambling addiction. Informational campaigns, prevention programs and dedicated learning materials could be rolled out to schools and other educational institutions. It comes after months of debate over the need for tighter gambling regulation. In July 2026, parliament rejected an earlier plan for a blanket ban on advertising and higher taxes. Concerns were raised about the impact on licensed operators and the danger of pushing more players onto unregulated sites. Prime Minister Rumen Radev said in September the government would renew its push for stricter rules, including curbs on advertising, higher taxes and tougher controls on financial activity related to gambling. The recent government decision is a major step forward in the implementation of that regulatory agenda. However, the proposed changes must first be approved by Parliament before becoming law.