A law came into force on April 1, prohibiting advertising of gambling and banning sponsorship of gambling. However, only some of its provisions are currently in force. We will tell you what we are talking about.
A law came into force on April 1, prohibiting advertising of gambling and banning sponsorship of gambling. However, only some of its provisions are currently in force. We will tell you what we are talking about.
According to the document, today a new body for managing the gambling industry, PlayCity, comes into effect. KRAIL, which previously had these functions, is being finally liquidated.
Instead of actual inspections, controlled play is being introduced as a control tool.
A mechanism is being implemented to restrict access to illegal gambling websites/mobile applications.
Also, advertising gambling is strictly prohibited, except in certain cases:
Sponsorship is prohibited, except for sponsorship in sports.
Also taboo is offering or providing reimbursement for gambling expenses; making phone calls, sending messages to an unspecified number of people; offering free bonuses in lieu of placing a bet.
The participation of military personnel, volunteers, popular figures, as well as the use of war-related themes, is prohibited in advertising.
The law also addresses blocking illegal websites and tightening requirements for game organizers.
In addition to the above, the law prohibits obtaining a license by persons who were owners or officials of gambling companies that have tax debts or debts for paying licenses.
Payments for gambling are made exclusively in cash through current bank accounts. The use of other payment services is prohibited.
Lotteries are subject to most of the restrictions of the gambling business: requirements for the reputation of officials, tax debt, relations with an aggressor country, exclusively bank payments. Foreign entities with relevant experience are allowed to obtain a license to conduct state lotteries.
The law, among other things, specifies the rules on the mandatory use of RRO by gambling businesses and the rules on the impossibility of obtaining a license by persons associated with the aggressor country. The use of their brands is prohibited.
The law also sets limits on spending and playing time, as well as mandatory breaks.
«Control purchases» are being introduced during video-recorded inspections.
It is prohibited to accept bets on credit or with subsequent payment.
In January, President Volodymyr Zelensky signed Law No. 4116-IX, which provides, in particular, for a ban on gambling advertising (except for a limited list of permitted methods) and a ban on sponsorship (except for sports sponsorship).
On April 20, 2024, Zelenskyy implemented the NSDC’s decision to restrict online casinos.
