Romania strengthens gambling laws to block unlicensed activity

Romania has taken significant steps to tighten its regulatory framework for gambling, implementing legislative reforms designed to curb unlicensed operations and strengthen the oversight of licensed suppliers. These measures come as part of the government’s broader strategy to safeguard both players and the integrity of the Romanian gambling market, aligning national regulations with international standards and best practices.

The new amendments focus on expanding responsibilities for licensed business-to-business (B2B) operators and imposing stricter obligations on suppliers to prevent their platforms from inadvertently facilitating unregulated gambling activity. The changes also enhance enforcement mechanisms and introduce penalties for non-compliance, reflecting Romania’s commitment to creating a safer and more transparent gambling environment.

Key amendments to the gambling law

Law 239/2025 represents a major reform of Romania’s gambling legislation, specifically targeting gaps in existing regulations that had allowed unlicensed operators to access Romanian players indirectly. Central to these reforms is the requirement that licensed B2B suppliers, including software developers, hosting providers, payment processors and platform service companies, must actively prevent access to unregulated gambling platforms.

The legislation introduces a cumulative test for determining prohibited service provision. Under this rule, a B2B entity may not provide services to unlicensed business-to-consumer (B2C) operators if all three of the following conditions are met:

• The operator offers gambling content in the Romanian language.
• The platform allows deposits or withdrawals in Romanian leu (RON) or other currencies, including cryptoassets.
• Romanian players can access the platform without a valid Class I license issued by the National Office for Gambling (ONJN).

Previously, Romanian law used an “any condition” standard, which exposed B2B suppliers to potential liability even when their services were not explicitly directed at Romanian users. By implementing this cumulative approach, the legislation clarifies the scope of responsibility for suppliers while maintaining robust safeguards against unlicensed activity.

Responsibilities of licensed B2B suppliers

Licensed suppliers now have a heightened duty to monitor and manage access to their services. Under the new regulations, if a Romanian player is detected on an unlicensed platform, suppliers must immediately block access and notify the platform operator to resolve the issue. Failure to comply is considered a criminal offense, with penalties including six months to two years in prison, fines and potential license revocation or even the dissolution of the offending company.

This represents a shift toward proactive enforcement, emphasizing the role of B2B operators in preventing unregulated gambling rather than relying solely on the operators themselves. Licensed suppliers are also required to maintain detailed compliance records and report suspicious activity, ensuring that regulators have the tools to monitor adherence to the law effectively.

Oversight of payment processors and platform providers

The reforms extend beyond software and platform developers to encompass payment processors, hosting providers and other service companies that support gambling operations. These entities are now legally required to:

• Block access to unlicensed platforms when Romanian players are identified.
• Report non-compliant partners to the ONJN promptly.
• Ensure that all contractual arrangements with operators comply with the new licensing requirements.

By widening the regulatory scope, the government aims to close previously unregulated areas of the market, particularly in the rapidly growing digital gambling sector. Payment processors, in particular, play a critical role, as they are often the gateway for deposits and withdrawals that can facilitate unlicensed gambling if not properly monitored.

Geolocation requirements for slot machines and VLT terminals

A significant component of the new legislation is the mandatory integration of geolocation systems into all slot machines and video lottery terminals (VLTs) in Romania. Beginning in January 2026, these devices must track their precise location, whether in use, storage, transit or maintenance.

Previously, stand-alone GPS devices were used, but the new integrated systems are expected to provide more accurate and reliable monitoring. This measure aims to ensure that gambling activities are limited to licensed locations and that regulators can quickly identify and respond to unauthorized use.

Geolocation technology also enables better enforcement of regional licensing restrictions, preventing operators from offering services in areas without appropriate authorization. This step demonstrates Romania’s commitment to modernizing its gambling oversight framework and leveraging technological solutions to improve regulatory compliance.

Political context and future reforms

The recent legislative changes come amid a broader political shift in Romania. Ilie Bolojan assumed the role of prime minister and Vlad-Cristian Soare was appointed as president of the ONJN. The new coalition government has signaled its intent to revise Romania’s gambling tax framework, suggesting that further reforms may be forthcoming.

While details of these proposals are still in draft form, the government’s focus appears to be on creating a more balanced system that protects players, enhances tax compliance and strengthens the regulatory environment for licensed operators. Analysts expect these reforms to address issues such as taxation of online operators, clearer definitions of licensable activities and improved measures to tackle problem gambling.

Implications for the gambling industry

The new legislation has significant implications for both domestic and international operators. For licensed B2B suppliers, compliance will require investments in monitoring systems, reporting procedures and staff training to ensure that they meet the expanded obligations. Companies that fail to implement these measures risk severe penalties, including criminal charges, license revocation or the forced dissolution of their business.

For B2C operators, the reforms emphasize the importance of maintaining valid licensing and complying with geolocation requirements. Platforms that previously operated in a grey area may find themselves unable to serve Romanian players legally. As a result, the amendments could drive consolidation in the market, favoring well-established operators with strong compliance capabilities.

Players themselves stand to benefit from enhanced protections. By blocking access to unlicensed platforms, the government aims to reduce exposure to unsafe gambling environments, ensure fair play and safeguard financial transactions. The new measures also contribute to responsible gambling initiatives, helping to mitigate potential harm associated with unregulated activities.

Technological and operational challenges

Implementing the new rules will present operational and technological challenges for many companies. Integrating geolocation systems into all slot machines and VLTs requires substantial investment and technical expertise. Similarly, B2B suppliers will need robust monitoring tools to detect and block access to unlicensed platforms effectively.

Training staff on compliance protocols and reporting procedures will also be essential to avoid violations. Companies may need to reassess contractual arrangements with third-party providers, ensuring that all partners are fully compliant with Romanian law. These steps, while demanding, are necessary to mitigate legal and financial risk and maintain market credibility.

International perspective

Romania’s reforms align with broader trends in European gambling regulation, where governments are increasingly emphasizing player protection, responsible gambling and stricter oversight of digital platforms. Similar measures have been introduced in countries such as Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom, reflecting a growing consensus that B2B operators must share responsibility for preventing unlicensed activity.

By implementing a cumulative test for B2B liability and requiring proactive monitoring and reporting, Romania is positioning itself as a leader in regulatory innovation. This approach not only enhances domestic protections but also provides clarity for international operators seeking to enter or expand in the Romanian market.

Conclusion

Romania’s strengthened gambling legislation represents a decisive step toward protecting the integrity of its market and ensuring the safety of players. By clarifying the obligations of licensed suppliers, extending oversight to payment processors and platform providers and introducing geolocation requirements for gaming devices, the government has created a more comprehensive and enforceable regulatory framework.

These reforms demonstrate the authorities’ commitment to addressing unlicensed gambling activity proactively. Companies operating in Romania must now implement robust compliance measures, invest in technological solutions and adopt rigorous monitoring procedures to avoid legal consequences. While these requirements pose operational challenges, they are essential to maintaining trust, legality and transparency in the gambling industry.

Looking ahead, the political and regulatory landscape suggests that further refinements to taxation and licensing are likely. Operators that adapt quickly and comply fully with the new rules will be well-positioned to benefit from a stable and regulated market. Meanwhile, players can expect safer, more transparent gambling experiences, reinforcing Romania’s reputation as a jurisdiction committed to responsible and lawful gaming practices.

Overall, the reforms balance the needs of industry stakeholders, government oversight and player protection, providing a solid foundation for the continued development of Romania’s gambling sector in a legally secure and technologically advanced manner.

FAQs

What are the new responsibilities for B2B suppliers in Romania?
Licensed B2B suppliers must block access to unlicensed platforms for Romanian players and report issues to the operator immediately.

What does the cumulative test for service provision involve?
Suppliers cannot provide services to unlicensed B2C operators if they meet three conditions: Romanian content, deposits in RON or other currencies and access to Romanian players without a valid license.

Are there penalties for non-compliance?
Yes, violations can result in six months to two years in prison, fines, license revocation or even dissolution of the company.

What changes apply to slot machines and VLT terminals?
From January 2026, all machines must have integrated geolocation systems to track their location in Romania.

Which entities are now under regulatory oversight?
Payment processors, software hosts, platform providers and other B2B service companies supporting gambling operations.

How do the reforms protect players?
By blocking access to unlicensed platforms and ensuring that only licensed operators provide gambling services.

Will these reforms impact international operators?
Yes, international operators must ensure compliance with Romanian licensing rules and geolocation requirements to operate legally.

What operational challenges do companies face?
Integrating geolocation systems, monitoring access to unlicensed platforms and training staff on compliance procedures.

Is Romania’s approach aligned with European standards?
Yes, the reforms reflect broader European trends emphasizing player protection and B2B accountability.

Are further gambling reforms expected?
Yes, the government plans to review taxation and licensing frameworks, suggesting additional changes may follow.