Greece Plans Major Crackdown on Illegal Gambling
Greece is preparing to introduce tougher measures against illegal gambling as the government seeks to strengthen consumer protection and reduce black-market activity.
The Ministry of Finance and National Economy has submitted a bill to parliament that would significantly expand the powers of the Hellenic Gaming Commission (EEEP). The proposed legislation is part of a broader effort announced earlier this year by Economic Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis, who described illegal gambling as a major economic and criminal threat.
According to government estimates, illegal gambling removes between €1.6bn and €2bn from the Greek economy every year and leads to tax losses of around €600m. Data published by the EEEP also showed that approximately 799,000 people, or 9.5% of the Greek population, used unlicensed gambling services at least once during 2024.
The bill would increase the regulator’s permanent workforce from 80 to 110 employees. New hires would focus on cyber security, intelligence gathering, information technology, market analysis and enforcement activities aimed at identifying illegal operators.
The EEEP would also receive broader powers to block gambling websites, remove illegal online content and oversee responsible gambling programmes. Gaming inspectors would gain special investigative authority, allowing them to cooperate directly with law enforcement agencies and launch criminal investigations.
The proposed legislation includes stricter penalties for businesses and individuals involved in illegal gambling. Operators could face the closure of their premises, licence revocations and significant financial penalties. Internet providers, advertisers, influencers and affiliates promoting unlicensed gambling services may also be fined.
The harshest measures target organisers of illegal gambling operations. Offenders could receive prison sentences of at least 10 years and fines of up to €800,000 in the most serious cases.
The public consultation period for the bill will remain open until 15 June 2026 before the government decides whether to submit the final version to parliament for approval.
