New Gambling Watchdog Starts Work in Ukraine
Ukraine has launched a new state agency, PlayCity, to regulate the gambling and lottery sectors. The new body replaces the former Gambling Regulation Commission and introduces stricter oversight aimed at reducing illegal operations and increasing tax revenues.
PlayCity to Digitize Licensing and Remove Gambling Operations Linked to Russia
PlayCity replaces the now-defunct Commission for the Regulation of Gambling and Lotteries, which Ukrainian officials described as ineffective. The new agency has a clear mandate: digitize licensing, implement real-time casino monitoring, restart the stalled lottery sector, and take on illegal operators — particularly those with Russian ties.
According to the Ministry of Digital Transformation, unlicensed lotteries continue to operate without paying license fees or falling under any formal supervision. Officials estimate that Ukraine loses up to UAH 10 billion annually due to unregulated gambling activity.
Bringing the industry into compliance could “significantly boost tax revenues,” the ministry noted, adding that such funds would contribute directly to national defense efforts.
One of PlayCity’s most immediate priorities is the introduction of a national online monitoring system for legal gambling venues. Licensing procedures are also set to be fully digitized. These measures are intended not only to improve transparency but also to streamline enforcement.
The agency will also reinstate Ukraine’s registry of problem gamblers, which is expected to be integrated into the Diia.Engine platform. In addition, individuals will be able to request self-exclusion through the Diia mobile app — a significant step toward modern consumer protection.
Hennadiy Novikov Appointed to Lead New Gambling Regulator
At the helm of PlayCity is Hennadiy Novikov, a lawyer with a background in public administration and prior experience within the gambling regulator’s secretariat. Appointed on April 8, Novikov is known for supporting the Ministry of Digital Transformation’s reform agenda and has already been involved in enforcement efforts.
In 2024 alone, Novikov oversaw the takedown of more than 4,500 illegal online casinos. His work also led to operator inspections and nearly UAH 18 million in fines.
PlayCity was formally established by Ukraine’s Cabinet of Ministers on March 21. The agency’s creation reflects a broader push to reduce regulatory gaps and bring structure to a sector long marred by informality and exploitation.