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Global gambling laws have gone through big shifts in the first half of 2025. From new tax systems and licensing rules to outright bans, countries are shaping their markets differently—and fast. Slotegrator released a report highlighting 10 of the most impactful regulatory changes from around the world.
Good to know
- The European Union removed Curaçao from its tax gray list, while the island launched major gambling reforms.
- The Philippines approved a full ban on offshore POGOs, with harsh penalties for violations.
- Mexico is moving to replace its outdated 1947 law with a modern national gambling framework.
Across several countries, regulation is no longer just about keeping things under control—it is now becoming part of a global strategy. Many governments are using local changes to mirror broader trends, learning from each other while maintaining national control.
POGO Ban and New Tax Plans Drive the Philippines Forward
The Philippines took a hard stance this year with the Senate approving a full ban on offshore Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). The new law aims to permanently shut down what remains of the once-booming industry. It includes strict penalties—violators could face up to 12 years in prison and fines reaching 50 million pesos (around $896,000).
On top of that, there are talks of new taxes and rules being added to the domestic online gaming market. If passed, those would further tighten the environment for legal platforms serving Filipino players.
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Curaçao, UK, and Others Introduce New Rules
Curaçao made headlines in early 2025 when the European Union dropped it from the tax gray list, acknowledging recent reforms. At the same time, the Curaçao Gambling Authority began overhauling its own licensing framework.
In the United Kingdom, the Gambling Commission rolled out new rules that require operators to let users set deposit limits before they make their first payment. Those changes are scheduled to fully take effect on October 31, 2025.
Meanwhile, Malta now demands that licensees submit both annual and interim financial reports—adding a new layer of oversight in one of Europe’s busiest gaming hubs.
Emerging Markets Are Catching Up Fast
The wave of change also reached countries like Uzbekistan and Paraguay. Uzbekistan legalized online gambling starting January 1, 2025. Foreign and local residents can now play, although operators must be licensed and restrictions apply to individuals with signs of addiction.
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In Paraguay, the government scrapped its gambling monopoly with a new law that took effect on March 1. Private operators are now allowed into the market, and the legal framework includes strong protections for minors and better enforcement against illegal gambling.
India’s Karnataka state has a new law in the works modeled after Chhattisgarh’s system, which separates skill games from games of chance. This effort is meant to clear up confusion and reduce black-market activity.
Other Countries Make Their Moves
New Zealand launched a licensing structure for online casinos, aiming to ensure better protection and oversight. Mexico is also in the middle of reform. A proposed law would replace legislation dating back to 1947, creating a national system that covers both online and land-based gambling, eliminates duplicated rules between agencies, and brings more transparency to the sector.
The Czech Republic saw its Constitutional Court back Prague’s right to control its own gambling rules. This supports a city-level ban on slot machines, though poker and roulette remain legal.
Global Shifts Push Operators to Think Local
Slotegrator managing director Yana Khaidukova summed it up: “Regional cases become frameworks. Governments are learning from one another and adapting rules to their national contexts, taking into consideration international standards.”
In other words, staying compliant at the local level is becoming the only way for operators to succeed globally. The second half of 2025 is expected to bring more adjustments, especially as more countries look to balance tax income, consumer protection, and black-market risks.
The post Slotegrator Lists Biggest Gambling Reforms of 2025 So Far appeared first on iGaming.org.