written and last updated by
Sam Smith at
12 Nov 2021
Journalist, Editorial Department
The Moldovan Parliament has reviewed a special bill proposing a ban on advertising all forms of gambling. The document has passed its first reading and is now awaiting official approval.
The authors of the initiative argue that the country is experiencing an uncontrolled increase in users of online casinos, betting shops, and lotteries on a daily basis. A significant portion of those spending money on gambling are individuals with low incomes, a fact corroborated by local analysts.
"Gambling creates victims and addiction, while this industry is promoted through aggressive marketing and advertising campaigns," states the explanatory note accompanying the bill.
One of the bill's authors, MP Dumitru Alaiba, commented on the lobbying for this initiative: "The figures we are observing indicate a growing and very serious gambling addiction problem. It is already resembling a catastrophe. The first factor fueling the development of gambling addiction is the advertising, which is characterized by its lack of regulation and aggressiveness."
The bill must undergo a second reading before it can become law. If approved, it will encompass advertising for all types of gambling activities, including online casinos, lotteries, sports betting, and raffles. The ban on gambling promotion will extend to television channels, print media, cinemas, online content, mobile devices, billboards, transportation, and any form of communication outlets.
It is also noteworthy that in August of this year, the country's parliament adopted new amendments to the Tax Code, stipulating that any winnings of 240 lei (approximately 970 rubles) or more will be subject to a 12% tax. This move aims to channel additional funding into the state treasury to support the budget plan.
In related news, Denmark is planning to introduce mandatory identification for casino players.
