Employees and representatives of the legal gambling and betting industry in Macedonia have announced protests against the proposed amendments to the Law on Games of Chance, warning that the changes could seriously affect the sector and leave thousands of people without work.
The initiative “I Want to Work” announced that protests will be organized in front of Parliament, stating that they are acting “in defense of the truth” and in defense of jobs connected to the legal gambling market. Representatives of the sector argue that the proposed legal changes threaten the existence of companies that operate legally and pay taxes and contributions to the state.
According to the reports, the industry estimates that around 10,000 employees could lose their jobs if the proposed law is adopted in its current form. Sports betting operators and representatives of the gambling sector appealed to MPs not to support the legislation, warning that many families depend directly on the industry for employment and income.
The sector is specifically demanding the urgent withdrawal of the proposed law on games of chance. Representatives claim that the legal amendments would significantly damage the regulated market and create conditions that could benefit illegal gambling operations instead of strengthening oversight and control.
Industry representatives also stressed that they intend to defend what they describe as the “legal market of games of chance,” presenting the issue not only as an economic question but also as a matter of protecting regulated business activity. According to their statements, the gambling industry contributes substantial revenues through taxes, fees and other payments to the state budget.
The announced protests come amid broader public and political debate over gambling regulation in Macedonia. Supporters of stricter regulation argue that stronger controls are needed because of the social consequences of gambling, while the sector insists that the proposed measures are too restrictive and would have serious economic consequences for employees and businesses.
The protests are expected to increase pressure on lawmakers in the coming days, as the debate over the future of the gambling sector continues to intensify.
