Greece, Feb 27: The Greek government has announced a major legislative overhaul aimed at tackling illegal gambling, as authorities warn that the country’s shadow betting market is costing hundreds of millions of euros in lost tax revenue each year.The draft law, introduced by Greece’s Ministry of National Economy and Finance, seeks to tighten enforcement against unlicensed operators both online and in physical venues. Officials say the reform is designed not only to curb unlawful betting but also to strengthen consumer protections and modernize regulatory oversight.
At the center of the reform is the Hellenic Gaming Commission, the country’s independent gambling authority. The regulator already maintains a blacklist of unauthorized online operators. Under the proposed law, that system will be expanded and updated to allow faster and more comprehensive action against illegal platforms.A Growing Shadow MarketGovernment data drawn from a 2024 survey conducted by the regulator suggests that illegal gambling remains widespread. An estimated 799,000 citizens — roughly 9.5% of the population — reportedly engaged in unlicensed betting activities.Authorities estimate the underground market’s annual turnover at approximately €1.67 billion (about $1.9 billion). The average player in the illegal market is said to spend more than €2,000 per year. As a result, the state is believed to be losing around €400 million annually in tax revenue.Officials argue that beyond lost revenue, the illegal market poses serious risks to consumers, as unregulated operators often lack safeguards such as age verification, fair-play monitoring, and responsible gambling tools.Stronger Digital Enforcement PowersA key feature of the reform is the expansion of the regulator’s authority in the digital space.
Under the proposed framework, the Hellenic Gaming Commission would be empowered to request the removal or blocking of online content linked to illegal gambling. This authority would extend to internet service providers, search engines, social media platforms, and other digital intermediaries.The regulator would also be able to demand identifying information related to accounts or websites suspected of involvement in unlawful betting operations. Lawmakers say these measures are intended to allow quicker disruption of illegal platforms, which often reappear under new domain names after being shut down.Expanded Resources and OversightTo support these enhanced responsibilities, the bill calls for an increase in staffing at the regulator. Permanent positions would rise from 80 to 110, including additional administrative roles and specialized scientific staff focused on digital monitoring, data analysis, and market supervision.Government officials say the expanded workforce will help the commission keep pace with increasingly sophisticated online gambling networks.
Balancing Enforcement and ProtectionThe reform reflects a broader European trend of strengthening oversight in gambling markets, particularly as online betting continues to grow. Greek authorities maintain that the goal is not to restrict licensed operators but to protect consumers and ensure fair competition by eliminating illegal providers.The draft legislation will now move through parliamentary review. If approved, it would mark one of the most significant updates to Greece’s gambling regulatory framework in recent years.For policymakers, the message is clear: as gambling evolves in the digital era, enforcement tools must evolve with it.
