The government of Macedonia has introduced a set of stricter measures aimed at regulating the gambling industry, focusing on limiting the presence and influence of casinos and betting shops. The proposed legal changes include a mandatory minimum distance of 500 meters between gambling establishments and schools, a measure presented as a key step toward protecting minors and reducing their exposure to gambling activities.
According to the reports, the new framework also wants to reduce aggressive advertising of gambling services. This includes restrictions on marketing practices that present gambling as a desirable lifestyle or a path to success, as authorities seek to reduce the social impact of such messaging, particularly among younger populations.
The measures are part of a broader government initiative to introduce tighter control over the sector, with officials emphasizing the need to establish clearer rules and stronger oversight. The proposals reflect growing concerns about the expansion of gambling facilities and their proximity to educational institutions, which has been a recurring issue in public debate.
Political representatives involved in the process stated that the new rules are intended to “set boundaries” for the gambling industry, signaling a shift toward a more restrictive regulatory approach. The introduction of these limits is being framed as an effort to restore order in a sector that has operated with insufficient constraints in previous years.
In addition to spatial and advertising restrictions, the government is also reportedly considering further measures targeting related financial practices, including potential regulation of fast loans, which are often associated with gambling behavior. This indicates that the reform may extend beyond casinos and betting shops, addressing the broader ecosystem linked to gambling.
Overall, the proposed changes aim to reshape the gambling landscape by reducing its visibility, limiting access near schools, and tightening promotional activities, while reinforcing institutional control over the industry.
