On October 25 2018, the Albanian government approved the changes
to the law on gambling which will become effective as of January 1,
2019. The changes will have an essential impact on the gambling
industry; the second largest employer in Albania, after the energy
sector.
Sports betting and slot machines will be closed until December
31, 2018 and will be available only online. The only related
activities that will continue to be allowed to operate include
gambling at casino resorts & large hotels out of residential
areas, bingo games on TV and the national lottery.
In addition, a decision which suspends the activity of the
Albanian Gambling Supervision Authority has been published, due to
its restructuring.
