Greece cracks down on illegal gambling with new bill
Greece’s Ministry of National Economy and Finance has introduced a new bill imposing tougher measures against illegal gambling, including hefty fines, business closures, and prison sentences of up to 10 years.
Officials estimate that the black market—often fuelled by cross-border online gambling from unlicenced websites—generates more than €1.5 billion ($1.7 billion) annually, depriving the state of significant revenue, as reported by several media outlets. The bill will also prioritise protecting minors and vulnerable groups, aiming to reduce the social impact of unregulated betting.
Expanded enforcement powers
Law 4002/2011 is the cornerstone of Greece’s gambling regulation. Since its enactment, it has been updated multiple times. The new bill builds on this guideline, grants local authorities broader powers to issue closure orders, revoke licences, and shut down premises engaged in unlawful gambling.
Before 2011, Greece’s gambling market was largely monopolised by OPAP (the state-controlled betting company). Law 4002/2011 opened the door to regulated competition, namely in online gambling, and aligning Greece with EU principles of consumer protection and market fairness.
Despite reforms, illegal gambling remained widespread, especially through unlicenced online platforms and informal venues like internet cafés. They are frequently used as fronts for illegal betting and will now face stricter licencing requirements—closing loopholes that authorities say have long sustained the underground market.
Severe penalties for operators and players
Unlicenced operators face a minimum of three years in prison and fines, with penalties rising to 10 years and €50,000–€100,000 ($58,340–$116,686) if gambling is involved.
Players participating in unlicenced games risk up to two years in prison and/or fines. Repeat offenders face harsher penalties: at least two years in jail and fines ranging from €5,000–€20,000 ($5,834–$23,338). Those obstructing inspections by authorised bodies could receive a minimum of three years in prison plus additional fines.
A comprehensive framework
Minister of National Economy and Finance Kriakos Pierrakakis emphasised the government’s goal of creating a “comprehensive framework” to combat illegal gambling, targeting both online platforms and physical venues.
Greece’s Law 4002/2011 and the new bill align with the EU principles like justifying restrictions on gambling through public interests (i.e. protecting minors and preventing fraud). Additionally, they strengthen AML compliance in cooperation with the Anti-Money Laundering Authority.
Role of the Hellenic Gaming Commission
The Hellenic Gaming Commission (HGC/EEEP) has blacklisted more than 11,000 illegal operators and works closely with police, judicial authorities, and the AML Authority to track unlawful venues and process complaints. The commission is currently led by a board of members, including a president and several appointed officials based in Athens.
The scale of the problem
According to Kapa Research, a leading Greek data collection and consulting firm, studies have revealed the scale of the country’s illegal gambling market. For one, in 2023, illegal gambling was estimated at €1.6 billion ($1.8 billion), with the state losing about €500 million ($583 million) in revenue. Around 900,000 Greeks reportedly wagered €1.7 billion ($1.9 billion) through unlicenced channels, underscoring the urgency of reform.
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