EUROMAT, the European Gambling and Amusement Federation, has voiced its concerns about Croatia’s recent changes to its Gambling Act. The group claims that the Croatian government failed to follow the proper steps to inform the European Commission, as required by EU law. The group has sent its complaint to the European Commission. It argues that Croatia should have shared the planned reforms by the TRIS or Technical Regulation Information System, as Directive (EU) 2025/1525 states.
EUROMAT has pointed out that many rules in the amendments qualify as technical regulations. These include making players show ID to exclude themselves, tougher rules on ads, setting up a list for people to exclude themselves, tougher rules on ads, and stronger limits on where gambling venues can be and when they can open. Moreover, the changes suggest raising license fees and taxes, which might lead to fewer gambling venues.
EUROMAT is concerned about the lack of notification. It warns that the rules could restrict market access and hinder the free movement of services within the EU. The group claims these impactful changes should have been reported to the European Commission before advancing in the legislative process. According to EU rules, member countries should tell the Commission about national measures that could affect the market. They might face legal consequences if they do not. This includes putting the use of law on hold.
EUROMAT’s President, Jason Frost highlighted how important it is to stick to the notification procedure. He compared this to what Croatia went through back in 2014 when it had to pull back a similar law after the European Commission took a closer look. Frost made it clear that the Commission must step in again to ensure Croatia follows the proper legal procedures. He pointed out that failing to notify creates uncertainty for businesses operating in the EU. He warned that if this kind of rule-breaking continues, it could lead to problems with future regulations across EU countries.
