Cyprus gaming and casino regulation puts sustainability first
The Cyprus Gaming and Casino Supervision Commission focuses on EU-aligned regulation, technology-driven supervision, and responsible gaming. Professor Pieris Chourides, President of the Cyprus Gaming and Casino Supervision Commission (CGC), heads the authority responsible for overseeing Cyprus’s regulated gaming and casino sector. In this exclusive interview with SiGMA News, Professor Chourides (pictured above) provides an overview of the Commission’s policy directives and strategic vision that will shape the future of the sector in Cyprus.
Regulatory framework and sustainable growth
SiGMA News: What are the strategic priorities of the CGC for the sustainable development of the gaming industry in Cyprus?
To improve compliance, Prof. Chourides highlights the significance of coordinating industry oversight with EU regulations and strategically using technology. He claims that to ensure economic gains do not jeopardise the interests of the general public, innovation in player protection, transparency, and oversight is crucial for sustainable progress.
Regulatory challenges and competitive positioning
SiGMA News: In your opinion, what are the main fiscal and regulatory challenges Cyprus faces to maintain the competitiveness of the gaming sector in Europe and globally?
Prof. Pieris Chourides: “The biggest challenge is staying competitive in a very dynamic regional market. That means maintaining a fair and attractive fiscal framework while ensuring transparency and integrity in operations. We also have to keep adapting to emerging technologies and shifting consumer behaviours so that our regulatory environments remain relevant and future-proof.”
Investment incentives for the Cyprus gambling industry
SiGMA News: What type of government incentives currently exist to attract foreign investment?
Prof. Chourides stated that Cyprus offers a stable legal environment and, for the Integrated Casino Resort (ICR), exclusive operating rights for the duration of its license. “We also have a competitive taxation policy, infrastructure support, and streamlined licensing processes for approved projects. Together, these factors strengthen Cyprus’s position as a leading destination for industry investment.“
Gambling taxation in Cyprus is structured to define clear fiscal obligations for operators. Key figures include:
- The tax rate on net gaming revenue for casinos in Cyprus is 13%: 10% direct tax and 3% going to the National Betting Authority to support sports federations and responsible gambling programmes.
- The general corporate tax rate in Cyprus is 12.5%, which is considered competitive within the European Union.
- Players do not pay tax on gambling winnings, which encourages regulated local play.
Online gaming and technological adaptation
SiGMA News: How does the CGC respond to the regulatory challenges posed by mobile gaming and the rise of online gaming?
The CGC is not ignoring industry transformation but instead monitoring trends to anticipate regulatory adjustments and displaying analytical capability and a commitment to keeping the sector competitive and resilient in response to evolving business models.
Prof. Pieris Chourides: “Mobile and online gaming are transforming the global industry. While Cyprus currently operates in the land-based model, we are closely monitoring international developments and evaluating the possibility of controlled online licencing in the future. Our approach is proactive, reviewing legal framework, studying best practices abroad, and investing in data-driven supervision to address cross-border compliance challenges.”
Expansion with caution: the future of casinos in Cyprus
SiGMA News: Is there any plan for the expansion of satellite casinos and new developments in the country?
Prof. Pieris Chourides: “The integrated casino resort and satellite casinos are performing well, and any expansion will be considered carefully. Decisions will be based on market sustainability, compliance with the licence agreement, and the potential economic and tourism impact for Cyprus. We won’t expand for the sake of expansion; each move must make sense for the market and the community.”
Player protection in Cyprus
SiGMA News: What measures is the CGC implementing to prevent gambling addiction?
Prof. Pieris Chourides: “Player protection is at the heart of what we do. We enforce strict responsible gaming requirements, mandate self-exclusion tools, age verification, and ensure casino staff are trained to identify and assist individuals at risk“. In partnership with social services, the CGC also conducts awareness programmes to encourage responsible and knowledgeable gaming practices, he stated.
The National Self-Exclusion Platform (NSEP), a universal self-exclusion system applicable to both online and in-person gambling, is a notable example in Cyprus. This policy, together with obligatory deposit and wager limits, the requirement to provide players access to their betting history, and “reality check” notifications to inform them of their gains or losses, which aim to reduce the harm associated with gambling.
Towards a competitive, safe, and transparent gaming sector in Cyprus
The CGC is reassuring a regulatory framework that prioritises market competition, strong player protection, and sustainable industry expansion. The Commission ensures Cyprus remains a transparent and trustworthy jurisdiction by aligning closely with EU standards and leveraging technology-driven supervision. Its cautious approach to market expansion and emphasis on responsible gaming reinforce public confidence and social responsibility.
