Bulgaria Proposes Near-Total Outdoor Gambling Ad Ban and Online Betting Fee Increases in Gambling Act Amendments

Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev has announced a bill to amend the Gambling Act that would impose a near-total ban on outdoor gambling advertising while raising fees for online betting operators. The measures target the proliferation of betting promotions on streets and buildings, which intensified after 2024 restrictions on television, radio, and online channels. Radev highlighted how Bulgarian towns and villages now resemble Las Vegas, stating the aggressive advertising corrupts young people and children.

Tightened Visibility Rules for Gambling Promotions

The draft amendments would prohibit billboards, posters, and other public displays promoting gambling. Casinos and gaming halls could no longer deploy bright, flashing, or illuminated signs or promotional window displays. Limited allowances would persist for gambling logos on official club jerseys and within sports halls.

The government’s impact assessment found that prior rules failed to curb negative effects, with young people and those facing gambling-related problems identified as especially vulnerable. Opposition MP Bozhidar Bozhanov of Democratic Bulgaria said gambling has turned into an epidemic, criticizing the state for failing to enforce or sanction violations of the 2024 regulations. Parliamentary support is expected, as Radev‘s Progressive Bulgaria holds a majority.

Higher Fees, Local Registration, and Enhanced Oversight

The variable component of the online betting license fee would increase from 20% to 21% in 2027 and 22% from 2028, with a minimum monthly variable fee of €100,000 (US$113,892). A new taxation model for casinos would base payments on real financial outcomes. Foreign operators would need to register financial activities locally to pay taxes in Bulgaria and face full state control, alongside stricter anti-money laundering and tax evasion rules.

Radev said whoever operates on the Bulgarian market and profits from it will pay taxes here and be subject to full oversight by the Bulgarian state. A share of the added revenue would fund sports, education, and responsible gambling prevention. As reported by Yogonet International, these changes address both visibility concerns and fiscal contributions.

The measures indicate Bulgarian authorities intend to close loopholes from earlier reforms, requiring operators to adjust marketing and compliance approaches in a more constrained environment.

Reporting: Yogonet International

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