Regulatory changes for slot machines in Romania

The gambling industry in Romania faced a transformative period with the introduction of new regulations that will affect slot machine operators. A legislative update requires that slot machine establishments be located in areas with a population exceeding 15,000. This change is part of a broader initiative to centralize gambling activities in larger population centres, which is expected to provide a more sustainable customer base and allow for better regulatory oversight.

The shift is a response to the observed correlation between the success of the gambling industry and the density of the population in urban areas. Larger cities offer a wider variety of customers and higher levels of activity, which are essential for the thriving of gambling businesses.

The following is a step-by-step guide if you are in the slot machine business.

Step	Action
Understand the new rule	Familiarize yourself with the new regulation stating that slot machines must be located in towns or cities with a population of over 15,000.
Reason for the rule	Recognize the government’s intention behind this rule: to ensure slot machines are in areas with enough population to support the business and maintain oversight.
Check your location	Verify the population of the town or city where your slot machine business is currently located.
Law implementation date	Note that the new rule was enacted on April 18, 2024, as an update to the existing gambling regulations.
Existing permissions	If you already have a licence for operating slot machines granted before 18 April 2024 you can continue operating until the license needs renewal.
Licence renewal	Prepare for your next license renewal by ensuring your slot machines are located in a town or city with a population exceeding 15,000.
Plan for relocation	If your current location does not meet the population requirement, start planning to move your slot machines to a compliant area before your licence renewal date.
Stay informed	Keep up-to-date with any further changes in regulations regarding slot machines to ensure continuous compliance.

Operators currently holding licences are granted a period of grace, allowing them to continue their operations until these licenses expire. However, it is strongly recommended that they begin the process of relocating to areas that meet the new population criteria to avoid future legal issues. This interim period is an opportunity for operators to re-evaluate their positioning and align with the new requirements.

Ensuring compliance for modern gambling operations

Failure to comply with these new regulations could lead to significant consequences, including operational hindrances and legal sanctions as outlined in the governing ordinances. Therefore, it is crucial for operators to conduct comprehensive demographic analyses and secure locations within the specified administrative territories.

The updated regulations present both challenges and opportunities for the gambling sector. Operators must navigate logistical changes and may need to invest initially to meet the new standards. Conversely, this could also pave the way for expansion into new markets and customer bases, potentially leading to increased revenue and a more stable operating environment.

As the gambling industry adapts to these changes, slot machine operators must approach the situation with strategic foresight. Embracing these developments and leveraging the potential of larger markets will be key to thriving under increased regulation and evolving consumer expectations. The clear directive for operators is to plan strategically for the future, ensuring their businesses are well-positioned to succeed in the new regulatory climate.

Find out more about SiGMA East Europe Summit 2024 to be held in Budapest.