On 4 December 2024, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted Draft Law No. 9256-d, which introduces significant changes to the regulation of the gambling business. The draft law received 239 votes in favour, which indicates the readiness of the parliament to introduce new regulatory mechanisms for this area. These changes have already caused cautious optimism among experts and market representatives, as their main goal is to restore order.
Draft law No. 9256-d has been discussed for a long time, and despite the fact that it has already been adopted, it still remains controversial. However, given that this is now the new legal framework for legal gambling organisers, it is necessary to clearly understand what innovations the law provides for and whether any of them are favourable for the legal market.
Advertising restrictions. The law introduces clear rules for gambling advertising. Advertising is allowed only in media for people over 21 years old, as well as on radio and television at night. It is prohibited to use war themes in advertising, involve military personnel or famous people.
Combating illegal platforms. A mechanism is being introduced to restrict access to illegal gambling websites and mobile applications. Strict measures are also envisaged for companies associated with russia. It is also interesting that a direct ban is introduced on phone calls and sending messages to an unspecified number of people - tools often used by illegal operators to promote and sell their services.
Financial transparency. All payments in the gambling sector will be made exclusively through bank accounts, which should ensure transparency of financial transactions. It is prohibited to accept bets on credit, as well as to provide bonuses that imitate bets or reimburse expenses for participation in gambling.
Social aspects. Limits on the time of play, mandatory breaks, and new requirements for the reputation of officials will help protect consumer rights. In addition, gambling advertising now has a social function, as part of the proceeds will be used to develop sports.
Although some of these points are cautiously optimistic, there are still many questions about their practical implementation. The main thing is that legal gambling organisers should not be held responsible for all advertising violations again, as all the dirt of illegal gambling is traditionally laid on the shoulders of the white market. Legal - means available for punishment.
It is also important that measures aimed at depriving illegal operators of some opportunities to advertise their services actually work. If the mechanisms for controlling these bans actually work, it will make it more difficult for illegal immigrants to operate and help reduce the shadow segment.
In general, it is too early to analyse the new law in detail. Only practice will give an answer to the question of whether the mechanisms for regulating the gambling sector in Ukraine were effectively laid down.
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