CGIL criticises Italy 2027 budget gaming measures at parliamentary hearing
Regulation3 min read
Italy's CGIL trade union criticised gaming provisions in the 2027 budget during a hearing before the budget committees of both parliamentary chambers. It said the measures prioritise tax revenue and market continuity over social and health impacts, and cited estimated additional state revenue of €334 million in 2027, €365 million in 2028 and €456 million from 2029.
Italy's CGIL trade union criticised gambling provisions in the proposed 2027 budget at a hearing before the budget committees of both parliamentary chambers. CGIL said the measures prioritised tax revenue and market continuity without adequately addressing the social and health effects of expanded gambling.
The measures are estimated to generate additional state revenue of €334m in 2027, €365m in 2028 and €456m from 2029.
Article 23 would raise the PREU tax rate on slots by one percentage point. It would double the maximum stake to €2 per game and the maximum prize to €200. Machines adjusted to a minimum payout of 70% would qualify for a 20% PREU rate. The budget's technical assessment estimates a 30% increase in stakes on AWP machines adapted to the new rules.
Article 24 would allow older amusement machines installed before 2003 without authorisation to remain in operation through a €1,000 regularisation payment per game. The machines do not offer cash prizes, but CGIL said the measure would increase potential spending per game and retain old equipment. The technical assessment estimates €15m in additional revenue in 2027 from regularising about 15,000 machines.
Article 25 would introduce regulation and taxation of online tournaments and digital games in LAN venues, including an 8% flat tax and authorisation fees payable every two years. CGIL said the measure did not address problematic use, protection of minors and personal data, or prevention of behavioural addictions. It said access for minors needed effective safeguards beyond game classification.
Article 26 would extend expiring retail betting and gaming network concessions until 31 December 2029, with a 50% increase in charges for retail betting concessions. The extension is estimated to produce €281m in annual revenue.
Article 27 would extend bingo hall concessions to 2029, link monthly fees to 81 turnover bands and recalculate outstanding historical fees for 2018 to 2026. CGIL said halving the minimum distance could increase the concentration of gambling venues, while recalculated past charges and debt instalments would reduce operators' costs. Fee revenue is estimated at €26.1m for 2027 and €21.5m for 2028 and 2029.
Article 28 would extend the instant lottery concession, including remote participation, until 31 December 2029. The concession holder would pay the state €188m in two instalments in 2027. CGIL said the payment could not compensate for the social and health effects of gambling.
Article 29 would add a fifth weekly Lotto and SuperEnalotto draw on Wednesdays, including optional and complementary games. Stakes are estimated to rise 4% from 2025, generating additional state profits of €30.5m in 2027 and €43.1m from 2028. CGIL said the measure did not assess the potential effects on gambling frequency and health. Article 31 would change the draw mechanisms for the receipt lottery.
Article 32 would offer gaming machine network concession holders a settlement of outstanding debt from a one-off charge due for 2015. The technical assessment puts the amount still to be collected at €89.47m. Concession holders joining the settlement would waive litigation and could receive a reduction in the amount owed and exemption from interest. Payment would be made in three instalments. The stated aim is to resolve litigation and improve recovery of the sums owed.