The gambling sector in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) continues to evolve at pace, shaped by ongoing regulatory reform, increased regulatory scrutiny, and the rapid growth of online and technology-driven gambling products. Against this backdrop, CMS is pleased to present the latest edition of our CEE Guide to Gambling Laws, which offers a comprehensive overview of the legal and regulatory landscape across the region.
Gambling Regulation: A Shifting Landscape of Opportunities and Risk
Across CEE, governments are reassessing their approaches to gambling regulation. In some jurisdictions, market liberalisation continues to create opportunities for new entrants and innovative business models. In others, tighter licensing regimes, enhanced compliance requirements, and increased enforcement are narrowing the scope for lawful operations. Navigating these diverging trends requires deep local knowledge and a clear understanding of both regulatory expectations and commercial realities.
CMS’s gambling law experts across the region advise clients throughout the full lifecycle of gambling operations, from market entry and licensing to ongoing compliance, restructuring and regulatory investigations.
Key Topics Covered in the Guide
The guide provides practical insights into the most relevant legal issues affecting gambling operators in CEE, including:
Regulatory frameworks – an overview of the laws and supervisory authorities governing gambling activities in each jurisdiction.
Structuring and corporate governance – considerations for establishing and operating gambling businesses in compliance with local requirements.
Licensing, compliance and data protection – navigating licensing processes, AML obligations and data protection rules applicable to gambling operators.
Currency control and cross-border issues – managing financial flows, payments and international operations.
Marketing and advertising – complying with increasingly strict rules on the promotion of gambling services.
Taxation – understanding gambling-specific tax regimes and related fiscal obligations.
Jurisdictions Covered
The CEE Guide to Gambling Laws covers the following jurisdictions: Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Turkey and Ukraine.
Whether you are considering expanding into new CEE markets or seeking to ensure ongoing compliance amid regulatory change, our guide provides a clear, practical starting point backed by local expertise and direct access to CMS’s specialists across the region.
Disclaimer:
This guide provides general information on potential legal issues and does not constitute legal advice. It is not intended to address the specific facts or circumstances of any individual case. Professional legal advice should be sought before acting on any of the information contained in this guide.
Find out more about gambling regulation in other jurisdictions.
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