The European Gambling and Amusement Federation (EUROMAT) has formally objected to Croatia’s failure to notify the European Commission regarding proposed amendments to the Croatian Gambling Act (PZ_42) under the TRIS procedure.
The amendments to the Gambling Act qualify as technical regulations under Directive (EU) 2015/1535, which mandates formal notification. EUROMAT has expressed concern over the Croatian Government’s decision to move forward with the legislative process without meeting these notification requirements.
Key Changes to the Croatian Gambling Act
The new provisions include:
Mandatory player identification for venue entry.
A self-exclusion register.
Strict advertising restrictions.
Regulations on venue location and operational days.
Increased licensing fees and taxation.
Under EU law, Member States are required to notify the European Commission of national provisions that restrict market access or service provision. Failure to do so breaches EU law and could lead to suspension of the legislation and infringement proceedings.
Croatia previously notified its gambling law in 2014, which was subsequently withdrawn following scrutiny from the European Commission. A similar notification was made in 2023 for a law impacting the amusement sector. The TRIS database records over 500 examples of such notifications across Europe, highlighting Croatia’s deviation from standard practice.
EUROMAT’s Response
Jason Frost, President of EUROMAT, emphasized the importance of adhering to notification procedures. He stated:
“If the Commission is serious about strengthening the Internal Market, it has to ensure Member States respect the law. Croatia had to withdraw its gambling law in 2014 due to the Commission’s intervention, which underscores the significance of this procedure. Intervention is needed again to ensure Croatia complies. Legal certainty is essential for companies to invest and operate in Europe, and disregarding responsibilities sets a concerning precedent.”
Filip Jelavic, General Secretary of the Croatian Gaming Association, voiced his concerns:
“It is inconceivable that any European Member State could introduce such disruptive legal changes without following proper procedure. We urge the Croatian Government to act responsibly and comply with the law.”
EUROMAT has called for the European Commission to take swift action to ensure Croatia fulfills its obligations under European law.
