LiveScore Malta Limited has confirmed it will withdraw its LiveScore Bet brand from Bulgaria by the end of the year.
Although Central and Eastern Europe have been viewed as emerging regions in recent years, this potential was not enough for the operator to stay put.
The decision was not finalised by poor results or lack of localisation, apparently. Instead, LiveScore has placed the blame solely on the UK Government.
The operator published the following statement: "The decision is a strategic mitigation following the UK government's 2025 Autumn Budget, which saw significant increases to both Remote Gaming Duty and General Betting Duty.
"Furthermore, the exit decision considers the uncertainty in Bulgaria's own regulatory landscape, with a potential tax rise on the horizon to reduce the national budget deficit."
A few weeks ago, the UK announced a new budget that would hike tax rates for online casinos from 21% to 40%.
An online sports betting duty will be introduced at 25%.
Bulgaria's Ministry of Finance recently published its own announcements, citing a gambling tax increase to 25% from 20%.
This will be overseen by Hristo Markov, the new Executive Director of Bulgaria's National Revenue Agency.
LiveScore continued: "The refocusing of resources ensures LiveScore Group remains robust and agile for the future.
"All impacted people have been informed and are now subject to a confidential consultation process, while an exercise is now underway to inform all LiveScore Bet customers in Bulgaria."
LiveScore Bet will continue to serve customers in the UK, Ireland and Nigeria
