The European Gambling and Amusement Federation (EUROMAT) has lodged an official complaint with the European Commission under Directive (EU) 2015/1535 (the TRIS procedure), alleging Croatia failed to notify amendments to its Gambling Act and four associated implementing regulations.
According to EUROMAT, the amended law introduces far-reaching technical rules that affect market access and the provision of services in Croatia’s gambling market, including mandatory player ID systems, strict limits on venue location and layout, a comprehensive ban on online and social-media advertising, time-of-operation restrictions, and a central player self-exclusion register. At the same time, by granting exemptions and regulatory privileges, the law allegedly creates an uneven playing field to the detriment of certain market segments.
Following the Act’s adoption, four separate implementing regulations were also enacted, each adding additional technical requirements. None were notified to the Commission as required under EU law, EUROMAT says.
Under Directive (EU) 2015/1535, Member States must notify the Commission of draft laws or regulations that affect market access, service provision, or impose mandatory technical requirements. Notification enables prior scrutiny and helps prevent barriers to the Single Market. EUROMAT notes that, despite repeated warnings from EUROMAT, the Croatian Gaming Association (HUPIS) and Commission services, Croatia proceeded without fulfilling this obligation.
“This complaint marks an important first step in the EU’s legal process. Based on EUROMAT’s complaint, the Commission can assess the evidence and decide on next steps, including whether to open infringement proceedings against Croatia,” said Jason Frost, EUROMAT President. “The notification procedure exists to ensure national measures are compatible with Single Market principles. Croatia’s decision to ignore it not only breaches EU law; it also threatens legal certainty for businesses across Europe. The Commission must act decisively.”
Filip Jelavi?, Secretary General of HUPIS, added: “The Croatian Government has sidelined stakeholders and EU institutions. By failing to notify, it has prevented scrutiny of measures that distort competition and harm different parts of the gaming sector. We urge the Commission to assess EUROMAT’s complaint and intervene without delay to uphold the rule of law and fair market conditions.”
What happens next
With the complaint filed, the European Commission may request information from Croatia, evaluate the compatibility of the Act and its regulations with EU law, and, if warranted, initiate infringement proceedings. Outcomes could include amendments or suspension of certain measures if they are found to create unjustified barriers to the Single Market.
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