Bulgaria’s regulator issues 55 violation notices to gambling venues

Bulgaria’s National Revenue Agency (NRA) has issued 55 administrative violation notices following inspections of 21 casinos, gaming halls and other gambling establishments throughout October.

The regulator said the inspections followed reports of irregularities from citizens. Of the 55 violations identified, 45 related to failures to comply with financial reporting and control requirements.

Inspectors found that multiple gambling establishments failed to complete their daily and monthly financial reports on time or obtain the required signatures, breaching regulatory requirements.

Furthermore, inspectors issued four violation notices to venues that allowed self-excluded individuals to enter. These are considered serious violations, and repeat offences may result in a temporary licence revocation.

Three venues were found to be in violation of the Anti-Money Laundering Measures Act.

Bulgaria is considering changes to its gambling law. In September, Prime Minister Rumen Radev announced plans to significantly tighten gambling advertising rules.

The changes would prohibit gambling advertisements on billboards, posters and other public displays, while casinos and gaming halls would no longer be permitted to use bright or flashing illuminated signs and promotional window displays.

Radev said the aim was to reduce the everyday visibility of gambling, arguing that towns and villages had increasingly come to resemble "Las Vegas."

Gambling branding would remain permitted in limited sporting contexts, including official club jerseys and sports halls.

Advertising restrictions covering television, radio and online channels were introduced in 2024. However, due to loopholes and weak enforcement, gambling ads remained visible both in outdoor physical spaces and online.

Reacting to the latest restrictive proposals, industry stakeholders have warned that jobs and future investment could come under pressure.