New gambling laws in Croatia passed

ZAGREB, 5 April 2025 (Hina) – On Thursday, Croatian MPs from both the government and opposition praised the final text of amendments to the Gambling Act, which, among other measures, introduces a ban on betting machines in hospitality venues starting next year.

They highlighted this as a significant step forward in the fight against gambling addiction.

The law also brings in socially responsible gambling measures, including mandatory identification of all players, the establishment of a register for banned players, regulation of operations on Sundays, and restrictions on gambling advertisements.

“I’m pleased this law has been passed. In its second reading, it made a major step towards public interest and protecting citizens’ health, especially children and young people,” said Ivana Kekin (Možemo!).

“Better regulation is something we must do, primarily for young people and all those who’ve fallen into gambling addiction,” said Petar Šimić (HDZ). The law has also been praised by Ivica Kukavica (DP).

Božo Petrov (Most) welcomed the changes but argued that gambling shouldn’t be advertised at all. “If other addictions aren’t promoted, I see no reason why this one should be advertised in any way,” he said.

Anka Mrak Taritaš (GLAS) agreed that progress had been made but also called for a complete ban on gambling ads in public spaces.

The law limits advertising by banning it between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. on the internet, in audiovisual and radio programmes, and in electronic publication content.

It also prohibits gambling ads in print media, on publicly visible surfaces, and reduces the external visibility of gambling venues.

Sponsorship advertising isn’t outright banned but can only feature the company name, logo, and brand of the gambling operator.

Additionally, the use of celebrities or media influencers in gambling ads is forbidden.

“I fully support this and thank the Ministry of Finance and the government for tackling this addiction so decisively,” said Boris Lalovac (SDP). He noted that the Croatian Regulatory Authority for Network Activities (HAKOM) will play a key role in enforcing the law by blocking illegal digital platforms offering gambling.

Marijana Puljak (Centre) also backed stronger oversight and regulation.

State Secretary at the Ministry of Finance, Stipe Župan, presented the law, stating that it introduces solutions to reduce the availability and visibility of gambling, curb incentives for players to participate, and lower the incidence of gambling addiction.

“We expect this to further protect players from addiction, strengthen treatment mechanisms, safeguard minors and vulnerable groups from gambling, and significantly reduce the ways people are encouraged to gamble,” Župan said.

He added that a decree will set out the permitted distance between betting shops and schools or children’s playgrounds.