Bulgaria has opened public consultation on amendments to its gambling act. The package proposes a near-total advertising ban and a shift to revenue-based taxation for land-based operators.
The ad ban would cover all channels except sports sponsorship, including illuminated signs outside casinos and gaming halls. Currently radio and TV advertising is prohibited outside the state lottery, but online, print and outdoor placements remain legal. Prime Minister Rumen Radev said the measures aim to tackle gambling addiction and protect minors.
Land-based venues would move from fixed fees per table or slot to a turnover tax. The current flat-rate system favours larger operators regardless of play volume. Under the proposal, all equipment must connect to the National Revenue Agency in real time. Authorities say this will close loopholes used for money laundering and tax evasion.
Online operators already pay 25% on GGR plus 10% corporate tax from January 2026, a 5% increase passed in the 2025 budget. Radev has now announced a further hike. Foreign companies operating in the Bulgarian market must report and pay tax locally, he said. Breaches of customs rules will become criminal rather than administrative offences.
The government holds 135 seats in the 240-seat parliament.
