Bulgarian gaming operators seek review of 300-metre venue rule
Regulation1 min read
Bulgaria’s Association of Gaming and Gambling Operators asked the government to reconsider the 300-metre distance requirement from schools and other sensitive sites, introduced in 2024, and said it may organise peaceful protests if it remains. The association estimates the restrictions could close about 800 gaming halls and casinos, putting 20 thousand jobs and up to 400 million euros in tax revenue at risk.
Bulgaria’s Association of Gaming and Gambling Operators has asked the government to reconsider a 300-metre minimum distance rule for schools and other sensitive sites, saying it may organise peaceful protests if the rule remains. The rule was introduced in 2024.
The restrictions could force roughly 800 gaming halls and casinos to shut, endanger 20mila jobs and reduce tax revenue by up to 400 million euros, according to the association’s estimates. Betting shops have more favourable requirements than gaming halls and casinos, including when opening new premises.
The sector is seeking equal treatment across land-based gambling and stronger assurances about checks at betting shops, particularly to prevent access by minors and vulnerable people. The association said it was willing to accept advertising restrictions and tax increases if existing licensed premises were exempted from the distance requirements, protecting investments already made.