The Croatian government’s proposals to amend the country’s gaming laws have drawn criticism from the European gaming and Amusement Federation (EUROMAT).
The group, which speaks for operators of amusement parks and arcades around Europe, claims Croatia neglected to inform the European Commission (EC) of the proposed modifications.
The plans, which were announced late last month, include a new tax on winnings, limitations on online advertising between 4 a.m. and 11 p.m., limitations on radio and video advertising, and limitations on advertising in print media and on public displays.
The Croatian government is moving forward with legislative procedures without informing the European Commission, which worries EUROMAT.
It claims that because the modifications to the nation’s Gambling Act are considered technical provisions, the EC must be notified in accordance with the TRIS procedure.
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Jason Frost, president of EUROMAT, said: “The Commission must make sure that Member States follow the law if it is serious about bolstering the Internal Market.
Because of the Commission’s intervention in 2014, Croatia was forced to repeal its gaming law, highlighting the significance of the notification process. Once more, the Commission must step in to make sure Croatia does in fact notify.
“Companies need legal certainty to invest and operate in Europe, and it sets a very concerning precedent if the Commission permits Member States to ignore their responsibilities.”
EUROMAT’s protests come after the Croatian Association of Gambling Operators (HUBPS) voiced similar worries. The administration was cautioned by the national trade organization that 15,000 employment may be affected by the planned modifications.
Mandatory player identification for venue access, a self-exclusion register, stringent regulations regarding the locations of gambling establishments, limitations on operating days, and higher licensing costs are some of the additional legal changes.
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