Key points:
- Euromat has filed concerns with the European Commission over Croatia's failure to notify its new Gambling Act under required EU procedures
- The legislation introduces regulatory changes including player identification requirements, advertising restrictions and increased fees
- Non-compliance with EU notification procedures could render the law unenforceable and lead to infringement proceedings
The European Gambling and Amusement Federation (Euromat) has urged the Croatian Government to pause enforcement of its newly adopted Gambling Act due to potential violations of EU law.
Euromat recently filed concerns with the European Commission, highlighting that Croatia failed to notify the legislation under the required Technical Regulation Information System (TRIS) procedure.
The Croatian law, set to take effect in eight days, introduces several significant changes that Euromat argues require proper EU notification – including mandatory player identification for venue entry, a self-exclusion register, advertising restrictions, location limitations for gambling venues, operating day restrictions and increased licensing fees and taxation.
EU regulations mandate that member states must notify the Commission of any national provisions that restrict market access or service provision.
Failure to complete the notification procedure constitutes a breach of EU law and could lead to the suspension of the law's application, infringement proceedings and potential fines.
Commenting on the matter, Euromat President Jason Frost stated: “We understand that the European Commission is in touch with the Croatian Government on this issue and I hope that the outcome of this is respect for EU law.
"Europe’s Single Market is undermined by member states if they cherry pick legal compliance. Business needs legal certainty and we are hopeful that the Commission will play its role in ensuring that Croatia respects its obligations”.
Filip Jelavic, General Secretary of the Croatian Gaming Association, added: “We welcome the fact that the European Commission has responded and reminded the Croatian Government of the importance of adhering to the established procedures within the EU.
“We believe it is in the interest of all stakeholders – including the Croatian Government – that the legislative process is carried out in accordance with the European legal framework.
“Legal certainty and predictability are essential for market stability, and any potential financial consequences arising from procedural shortcomings are ultimately borne by businesses and citizens."
