Albania's parliament has voted to lift a five-year ban on online sports betting, allowing only 10 verified companies to operate in a bid to curb the black market. The popularity of sports betting in Albania and the influence of the black market highlight the need for regulation to ensure responsible and transparent gaming.

The Albanian parliament has approved changes to legislation to lift the ban on online sports betting, which was introduced five years ago along with a complete ban on gambling.

Boomerang effect

The online betting permit was approved by all 75 members of parliament present at the vote on February 9, 2024. This is a drastic measure against the black market, which has flourished both online and offline despite a complete ban on gambling in the country.

“The government has decided to lift the ban on online sports betting in an attempt to stop its spread in the illegal market,” publications from the Ministry of Economy confirm.

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Only 10 companies with experience in the betting industry will receive a license.

According to the new regulation, only verified and reputable bookmakers will receive licenses to operate online sports betting platforms. This selective approach is intended to ensure responsible and transparent management of the resurgent industry.

“We want to make sure we only work with reputable companies who understand the importance of responsible gambling,” said an Economy Ministry spokesman.

Albanians love sports betting

In 2018, the Albanian parliament voted to remove gambling establishments from residential areas to limit their spread. However, many gaming outlets continued to operate secretly.

Before the ban was introduced, sports betting was carried out mainly in cafe chains owned by three licensed companies. It has been a very popular leisure activity in the country: in 2018, there were 4,214 sports betting cafes throughout Albania.

According to official data, 5 years ago Albanians spent up to €150 million ($161 million) a year on sports betting. However, including illegal bets, the figure reached €700 million. This stark contrast highlights the scale of the influence of the black market and the urgent need to regulate it.

Warming in the market

Albania is entering a new chapter and we hope that this shift in regulation will create a safer and more transparent environment for sports bettors while stemming the tide of illegal activity.

The impact of this decision extends far beyond parliament, promising exciting prospects for online sports betting in Albania.

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