In 2024, the Association of Gaming Industry in Bulgaria (AGIB) continued to play a vital role in the development of the country’s gaming sector. AGIB actively worked to establish ethical standards and promote sustainable business practices as a leading organization representing operators, service providers, and manufacturers in the gambling industry. This year, AGIB strengthened its commitment to sustainable sector development through numerous initiatives, events, and expert opinions, significantly impacting regulation and the business environment in the gambling market.
AGIB’s active participation in the legislative process was a significant part of its activities in 2024. The association provided expert opinions on fundamental legislative changes related to the gambling sector. From January 1, 2024, new amendments to the state fees for gambling operators came into force, including introducing a two-component fee for a license for traditional gambling and a significant increase in the one-time fee for online betting, which reached BGN 400,000. Additionally, increased fees for casinos and gaming machines posed new challenges for operators, for which AGIB advocated actively.
In April 2024, new rules regarding gambling advertising were adopted, including a ban on advertisements on radio, television, public spaces, and electronic media. These changes were accompanied by new content requirements to prevent problem gambling and protect consumers. AGIB expressed its position on these issues, emphasizing the need for clear and effective regulations to ensure safety and responsibility in the sector.
In August, a draft of significant amendments was developed for the Regulation on the Registration and Identification of Participants. The objective was to standardize data submission processes for operators working across jurisdictions. The amendments outlined the procedures for approving automated data submission systems to the National Revenue Agency (NRA). AGIB participated actively in these discussions, offering its expertise and collaboration with government institutions to develop a more effective regulatory environment.
At the end of November 2024, AGIB organized the 15th edition of the Balkan Entertainment and Gaming Exhibition (BEGE) – the largest annual event for the industry in the region. The exhibition brought together over 80 companies from all industry segments, showcasing their innovative products, services, and solutions. In 2024, it attracted more than 6,700 visitors, reaffirming its status as the leading event for professionals in the sector.
The accompanying Eastern European Gaming Summit (EEGS) gathered over 400 professionals from 25 countries, providing them with a platform to exchange experience, knowledge, and ideas. The conference focused on the latest regulatory and technological developments in the gaming sector, delivering valuable insights directly from leading experts.
Another critical aspect of its activities is AGIB’s support for the Responsible Gaming Foundation. Through various initiatives, AGIB promotes responsible gaming behaviour and protects vulnerable groups. The association is committed to raising awareness and educating consumers on the risks of problem gambling to foster a culture of responsibility within the industry.
In 2024, AGIB actively participated in international gaming exhibitions and conferences, enabling the exchange of experience and ideas with professionals worldwide. These events included key gaming exhibitions such as ICE in London, SBC Summit in Barcelona, SiGMA in Malta, G2E in Las Vegas, and Enada Primavera in Rimini, Italy. These events are crucial for sharing and implementing best practices in Bulgaria, offering AGIB members opportunities for collaboration and new business relationships.
At the SBC Summit 2024 in September, Rossi McKee, a member of AGIB’s Board of Directors, participated in a panel discussion titled „Omnichannel Strategy for Enhanced Customer Experience”. This session provided a platform to discuss innovations and strategies businesses can implement to ensure a seamless user experience in both online and offline environments. AGIB has also resumed publication of its specialized magazine, Game Spectrum, which has become an essential resource for industry professionals. The magazine provides industry participants with up-to-date analysis, news, and expert commentary, ensuring they remain informed and fostering the exchange of ideas and best practices.
AGIB ‘s active work and commitment to developing the gaming industry continue to position Bulgaria as a competitive and regulated market for gaming services. The organization is dedicated to improving business conditions and promoting ethical and socially responsible practices that are fundamental to the sector’s sustainable success and the protection of consumer interests. I BGNES
