The Greek Ministry of Finance and National Economy has rolled out an omnibus bill aimed at revamping the nation’s gambling framework. This legislative push, laid out on June 5, promises to address illegal gambling, enhance oversight of licensed operations, and modify the taxation on online gaming winnings. A consultation period is set to run until June 15, after which the draft may be tweaked before heading to parliament for approval.
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Expansion of Hellenic Gaming Commission’s Powers
Among the proposed changes is a major expansion of the Hellenic Gaming Commission (EEEP). The bill seeks to endow the regulator with new enforcement capabilities and impose stiffer penalties. One of the standout measures includes compelling banks to block transactions tied to unlicensed gambling sites—an attempt to undercut the black market’s financial lifelines. The EEEP’s staffing will also increase—rising from 80 to 110 employees—with new recruits focusing on IT, cybersecurity, intelligence, and enforcement. This boost comes as part of the Ministry’s acknowledgment of illegal gambling as a “sophisticated transnational activity” necessitating advanced technical vigilance. The EEEP will also spearhead responsible gambling initiatives, commission research, and devise strategies to reduce unlicensed gambling participation. Inspectors under the new law would gain the authority to initiate criminal investigations, reflecting a strong stance against illegal gambling.
Harsh Penalties for Illegal Gambling Activities
Organizers of illegal gambling operations face severe penalties under the proposed legislation. Prison terms could extend up to 10 years, accompanied by fines ranging between €50,000 to €700,000. In cases involving minors or repeat offenders, fines could escalate to €800,000, with minimum prison terms solidified at 10 years. But those enabling these unauthorized activities—through websites, apps, or even social media—could incur fines as high as €50,000. Internet service providers and advertisers associated with illegal gambling channels might face penalties reaching €2 million per infraction. Additionally, the bill aims to tighten identity verification processes significantly. Those supplying gambling cards to ineligible players could face up to two years in prison and fines of €5,000. Establishments such as internet cafés found hosting illegal gambling could be shuttered for a year, with operators facing large financial penalties.
New Taxation Structure on Gambling Winnings
The legislation doesn’t stop at enforcement—there’s a new tax structure on the table for online gaming winnings, including poker and live casino games. Winnings are to be taxed on a per-session basis. And the first €100 would be exempt, but amounts up to €500 would attract a 20% tax, with anything above that taxed at 30%. Economic Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis pointed to an annual financial hemorrhage of €1.6 to €2 billion from illegal gambling activities, translating to roughly €600 million in lost taxes. He emphasized Greece’s leadership intends to position the country as “the first European nation to design a specific legislative framework to combat illegal gambling as a criminal and economic threat.”
The data from the EEEP underscores the challenge—showing that in 2024, around 799,000 Greeks, or 9.5% of the population, engaged with unlicensed gambling at least once.
Anticipated Adoption and Future Implications
The consultation period for this legislative overhaul wraps on June 15, with parliamentary discussions expected to follow shortly after. If passed, the new framework could serve as a model across Europe for tackling illegal gambling—though whether it achieves its ambitious goals remains to be seen.
Garry Sputnim is a seasoned journalist and storyteller with over a decade of experience in the trenches of global news. With a keen eye for uncovering stories that resonate, Alex has reported from over 30 countries, bringing light to untold narratives and the human faces behind the headlines. Specializing in investigative journalism, Garry has a knack for technology and social justice issues, weaving compelling narratives that bridge tech and humanity. Outside the newsroom, Garry is an avid rock climber and podcast host, exploring stories of resilience and innovation.
