The Albanian legislature has recently enacted a law prohibiting online gaming. The legislation, which was approved unanimously, will take effect on the first day of the new year. The new regulation will restrict gaming activities to designated tourist zones, such as a five-star hotel casino in the capital city, Tirana. The national lottery will continue to operate, but all online gambling websites will be prohibited. The law will also require the closure of slot machine arcades and betting shops in residential areas. The government’s campaign to address addiction issues, reduce the risk of sports manipulation, and protect family finances has led to the implementation of this new law. A special task force will be established to shut down any online gambling websites that continue to operate in the country.
Representatives from sports wagering businesses have pledged to oppose the prohibition and seek reimbursement.
Rama has spearheaded the struggle against gaming in Albania since his socialist party secured a resounding electoral triumph five years ago. Within five months of his victory, approximately 1,300 betting establishments were examined, many of which were shut down for purported financial misadministration.
Operators in Albania had anticipated a timely surge when the administration submitted proposals in July to reduce the tax rate from 15% of gross gaming revenue to 15% of gross earnings. Nevertheless, President Ilir Meta rejected the proposition, returning it to the legislature for further deliberation.
Albanians allegedly spent €132 million on gambling in 2017, a 10% increase year-over-year, despite a population of less than 3 million and a GDP of €12.7 billion, rendering it one of the least prosperous nations in Europe.
However, a report by the State Audit Office indicated that the nation failed to collect approximately €395 million in penalties imposed on operators for failing to adhere to specific regulations between 2014 and 2016.
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