Slovakia to Get Tougher Gambling Ad Rules
Slovakia is set for stricter gambling advertising as Conservative parties demand more protection for vulnerable groups. This comes amid rising gambling losses and concerns over the exposure of minors to gambling content.
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Gambling on the Rise and Losses
Gambling is booming in Slovakia, online casinos are becoming more popular. In 2023 Slovakia lost €1.32 billion ($1.39 billion), €130 million ($137 million) more than in 2022. Total bets were €21.36 billion ($22.57 billion), winnings €20.04 billion ($21.18 billion).
This growth has raised concerns among lawmakers, especially Conservatives who want to limit the impact of gambling ads on young and vulnerable people.
Proposed Ad Restrictions
A coalition of Conservative parties, Slovensko, For the People and Christian Union (KU) have proposed changes to the “Law of Advertising and Media Services”. They want to restrict gambling and alcohol ads and introduce more measures to protect minors and at-risk individuals.
Key proposals include ban on TV ads for gambling and alcohol between 6:00 am and 10:00 pm, to reduce youth exposure to these products. They argue current regulations are insufficient, gambling ads have no time limits and alcohol ads are vague and unclear.
The Conservative coalition also blame the government for not solving these gaps, although both alcohol and gambling are restricted to 18+.
Reform Ignored
Slovakia’s gambling landscape changed in 2019 when the Slovak Gambling Act was amended to comply with EU guidelines and online casino and poker games were allowed outside the state monopoly.
But despite these changes, ad regulations remain untouched. The Office for Gambling Regulation has been asking lawmakers to fix this for years, but no one is listening.
The proposed ad restrictions will fill the gaps in promotion of age restricted products. Advocates say it will bring Slovakia’s media and ad policies in line with its gambling and alcohol laws.
Oversight and Licensing in Slovakia
Slovakia’s gambling is overseen by the Office for the Regulation of Gambling Games. Local presence is required for operations, but entities from other EU countries can get a license if they have a Slovak seated representative.
This has created a competitive market but it has also shown the need for ad policies to address gambling promotion risks.