The online gambling market in Serbia is highly dynamic, with sports betting holding a dominant position. In 2024, the market is projected to generate $142.9 million in revenue, with an annual growth rate of 5.41 percent reaching a market size of $186 million by 2029.
The average revenue per user (ARPU) in 2024 is expected to be $690. By 2029, the number of users in the online gambling market is projected to reach 248,800, representing 2.9 percent of the Serbian population.
Football leads betting in Serbia
Football is the most popular sport among Serbian bettors. A notable moment in Serbian football history is the 2006 World Cup when Serbia, competing as part of the Serbia and Montenegro national team, defeated Spain and advanced from their group – an achievement that remains a point of pride for Serbian fans. Besides football, basketball also captures significant attention in Serbia. The Serbian basketball team reached the semi-finals of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, has earned several FIBA EuroBasket medals, and is currently ranked 6th in the world. This success continues to drive interest and betting among fans.
In Serbia, around 1,300 sports betting shops are operated by 20 companies, highlighting the widespread availability and popularity of gambling in the country.
Serbia’s poker scene
Poker has a dedicated following in Serbia, with the nation eagerly anticipating the opportunity to host a major poker championship. In 2010, the national poker community, Poker Saves Srbije, became a member of the International Poker Federation, marking a significant milestone. Since then, this community has played a crucial role in organising Match Poker tournaments across Serbia, allowing players to sharpen their skills, develop strategies, and engage with the global poker community.
Gambling regulation in Serbia
In recent years, Serbia’s gambling market has seen significant regulatory changes, leading to a more structured legal framework for both land-based and online gaming. Gambling was legalised in Serbia in 2006, with online gambling following in 2011. Comprehensive regulations were introduced in 2013, and further amendments in 2020 addressed advertising, responsible gambling, and anti-money laundering (AML) policies. These changes aim to align Serbia’s gambling legislation with EU standards, as the country looks toward potential accession to the European Union.
The Gaming Authority (GCA) oversees gambling activities in Serbia, ensuring compliance with the legal framework. The introduction of a licensing system marked a pivotal moment in regulating the emerging online gambling sector. To attract and retain operators, the Serbian government has implemented preferential tax rates and ten-year licenses.
Cost of a Serbian licence for operators
For companies looking to enter Serbia’s gambling market, the licensing process is relatively straightforward. Requirements include a minimum share capital of €250,000, a bank deposit or guarantee of €300,000, and a daily risk cash deposit of €10,000. While land-based casino licenses are limited and come with higher fees, online casino licenses are more affordable and have a ten-year validity period, reflecting Serbia’s welcoming approach to online gaming businesses.
Serbia’s gambling market is growing, with a strong focus on regulation, online gambling, and creating favorable conditions for both domestic and foreign operators. The robust legislative framework, combined with the population’s interest in sports and gambling, makes Serbia an attractive market for the gambling industry.
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