Amid increasing regulatory pressure and the growth of the illegal segment, many markets are embracing consolidation. The new Balkan Gaming Federation (BGF) opens access to coordinated policies, the exchange of experience, and joint initiatives to strengthen the region’s position in Europe.
Union of 7 Countries: Structure and Goals
The involved national industry associations signed a memorandum of cooperation, shaping a promising alliance. The 7 states' document was formalised in Belgrade during a meeting organised by Serbia’s AGOS with the participation of Bulgaria’s AOGGAB.
Besides these 2 bodies, the new structure includes the following authorities:
- Croatia’s HUPIS;
- Montenegro’s GPIS;
- Romania’s ROMSLOT;
- North Macedonia’s MAK GEJMING;
- Bosnia and Herzegovina’s UPIS RS.
The associations bridge operators, providers, equipment manufacturers, and technology suppliers, covering both online and land-based segments. The BGF’s key objective is to create a unified platform for coordinating policy, compliance, and commercial programs without replacing national organisations.
Need for Stability Amid Regulatory Shifts
The regional countries are facing growing pressure to amend laws amid accelerated sphere expansion and the dynamic experience of neighbouring and global jurisdictions. Many states have initiated or are preparing to launch important oversight-related projects.
Some of the prime changes:
- Bulgaria is discussing raising the minimum player age from 18 to 21.
- North Macedonia's government is set to implement stricter industry limits.
- Bosnia and Herzegovina's legislators plan to end a special VAT fee break.
- Croatia has launched a self-exclusion system for vulnerable audience segments.
- Serbia has introduced a new gambling law that allows local certified brands to offer large-pool jackpots.
- Montenegro argues with tax officials who seek to change the fiscal framework without solid evidence.
- Romania deepened cooperation with national policymakers to ensure stricter customer protection rules.
Strategic Priorities of the New Federation
The establishment of this union is directly related to the region’s shared challenges. Balkan states are simultaneously facing regulatory changes and the growth of the illicit sector, requiring concerted measures.
The Federation has identified priority areas of work:
- combating unfair competition;
- coordinating on legislative initiatives;
- exchanging oversight practices across jurisdictions;
- expanding cross-border partnerships and general business ties;
- confronting unlicensed brands through data access and joint projects.
Additionally, the organisation will launch collective marketing campaigns and hold its exclusive events to increase the visibility of the Balkans as a unified region.
Influence on Operators and Suppliers
The BGF formation reflects a strategic shift from fragmented regulations to a more coordinated development model.
Major benefits for businesses comprise:
- more transparent competitive conditions;
- access to new initiatives and partnerships;
- strengthening protection for the legal segment;
- simplification of interaction through a consolidated position.
The Federation is also seen as a link to the broader gambling market in Europe, including its ties to EU-level industry organisations. The next stage is the approval of the charter and the formalisation of the structure, which is expected later in 2026.
The BGF establishment reflects the region’s desire for more coordinated development and strengthening of the legal sector. For operators, this alliance means expanded opportunities and reduced work risks.
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