Lithuania Tightens Measures Against Illegal Gambling
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Loading... - Kendra Weaver
- 26 Mar 2025
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The Lithuanian government has taken decisive action to combat illegal gambling by updating its legislation to enhance the regulation of the gambling sector and protect vulnerable groups from gambling-related harm. These changes, proposed by the Ministry of Finance and approved by the Lithuanian Parliament, aim to restrict unauthorized gambling operators from targeting Lithuanian consumers and undermining the regulated market.
Key Updates to Legislation
- Blocking Unauthorized Payments: The new measures will limit credit and debit card payments to unauthorized gambling sites. Financial institutions in Lithuania are now required to block transactions made to gambling operators not included in the government’s official “white list.” This list comprises only those gambling operators that are licensed and permitted to operate within Lithuania.
- Consumer Protection Enhancements: The updated regulations strengthen consumer protections and enhance overall transparency in the gambling sector. By ensuring that only licensed operators can conduct customer transactions, the measures aim to safeguard consumers from illegal gambling activities.
- Transaction Transparency: Previously, payment card transactions to online gambling platforms lacked detailed recipient information, complicating investigations into illegal activities. The amendments will require that all gambling transactions comply with the standards set by Lithuania’s Gaming Supervisory Authority (LPT). This updated information will be crucial for preventing attempts to circumvent regulations and will assist regulators in tracking market trends more effectively.
- Fines for Payment Service Providers: The legislation introduces fines for payment service providers that facilitate transactions involving illegal gambling entities. Managers and responsible persons at these institutions could face financial penalties ranging from €1,800 to €3,800 ($1,850 to $3,900). This provision aims to hold financial service providers accountable for their role in enabling illegal gambling operations.
Ongoing Gambling Reforms
Lithuania has made significant strides in its efforts to protect consumers and regulate the gambling market. Recent reforms include:
- Raising the Legal Gambling Age: The legal gambling age has been increased to 21, reflecting a commitment to protecting younger individuals from gambling-related harm.
- Steeper Licensing Fees: The introduction of higher licensing fees aims to ensure that only serious and responsible operators enter the market.
- Addressing Gambling Addiction: The government has implemented measures to tackle rising gambling addiction rates among the population.
Additionally, a new advertising regime set to begin in July 2025 will significantly limit advertising placements both online and offline, further protecting consumers from excessive gambling promotion.
Aligning with European Trends
Lithuania’s efforts to strengthen its gambling regulations align with broader European trends focused on enhancing consumer protections, reducing harm, and combating illegal operators. Since 2016, the country has successfully blocked 1,809 illegal gambling websites, establishing itself as a leader in responsible gambling regulation. These measures reflect a balanced approach that considers the interests of operators, consumers, and payment providers, ensuring a safer gambling environment for all.
