Romania coalition government discusses ban on gaming ads

Júlia Moura August 29, 2024

The National Liberal Party (PNL), a key member of Romania’s coalition government, has decided to prioritize the elimination of gambling advertising during the autumn 2024 parliamentary session. Although the PNL has yet to release specific details about the proposed legislation, the need for stricter regulation has become increasingly urgent. Several legislative proposals concerning the gambling industry are currently stalled in parliamentary committees, awaiting further deliberation. This initiative is the sixth on a list of 11 priorities presented by the PNL parliamentary group and aims to combat the pervasive presence of betting ads, particularly in sports.

The proposal to ban gambling advertising has sparked significant discussion. Some sectors of society support the initiative as a necessary measure to protect the public from the harmful effects of gambling addiction, while others warn of potential economic consequences, given that the gambling industry is a major source of revenue for the government.

Evolving landscape of Romania’s gambling industry

Currently, Romanian law permits gambling advertisements on television only between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., as well as during live sporting events. However, there are no restrictions on online ads, and outdoor advertising has recently faced some space limitations. Despite these rules, the gambling industry remains a major sponsor of Romanian sports, particularly in Liga 1, where 14 of the 16 clubs have betting companies as their main sponsors.

In early 2024, Parliament passed a law banning slot machines in Romanian towns with fewer than 15,000 inhabitants. This action reflects a broader trend toward tightening regulations in the sector, aiming to minimize the negative impacts of gaming addiction.

Despite the controversies, the Romanian government, led by the PNL, appears determined to move forward with this proposal, prioritising the well-being of the population. The project’s progress still depends on further legislative steps.