The Romanian government is reaffirming its intention to charge gambling firms higher license costs and operating standards. Strict limitations on gambling operations are laid forth in a draft of emergency legislation that the Ministry of Finance recently revealed. Notably, all gaming establishments—aside from casinos—will be forbidden from selling alcohol.
Members of Parliament have received these proposed emergency ordinances for consideration and vote in the upcoming month. One of the most important requirements is that all individuals who possess gaming licenses must reside in Romania and pay taxes there.
New Fees and Tax Enforcement
Independent of their profits, licensed gaming establishments must set aside a minimum of €1 million ($1.05 million) for licensing provisions as of January 1, 2025. Additionally, annual licensing fees will be implemented. The rates will be €200,000 ($210,000) for lottery games and fixed-odds betting, €150,000 ($157,800) for slot machine games, bingo on TV networks, counter bets, and casino-style gambling, €65,000 ($68,400) for mutual bets, €25,000 ($26,300) for poker club games, and €15,000 ($15,780) for bingo in designated gaming rooms.
Larger retail gaming operators and land-based casinos will have to pay specific license costs based on their yearly revenue. Additionally, the National Gaming Office of Romania (ONJN) must receive operator tax payments within five business days of the end of each month, under the Ministry of Finance’s drive for stronger tax compliance.
These actions follow the recent loss of Betting Frenzy’s license by the ONJN due to more than $704k in unpaid gambling taxes.
With reference to the stories of misery and shattered families brought on by addiction, Marcel Bolos, Romania’s Minister of Finance, stressed the need for resources to address the problem of gambling addiction. He emphasized that the government must work in the best interests of all citizens, not just its own.
A part of the money made will go to a fund that will assist gambling addiction prevention and treatment initiatives. A ban on unsolicited web advertisements and the promotion of wagering incentives like jackpots and bonuses are among the harsher guidelines for gambling advertising that are supported by the proposed laws.
A parallel occurrence occurred earlier in September when the Romanian Senate approved a draft law seeking more limitations on betting shops and street gaming, demonstrating the government’s commitment to reducing gambling-related problems in the nation.
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