GVC Holdings European online betting subsidiary Bwin is reportedly seeking an online gaming license in Poland despite a heavy new 12 percent “betting turnover tax” that is being implemented this month in the country, according to a report by SBC News.
Poland’s new tax and regulatory scheme has already caused major online operators such as Energybet, William Hill, OlympicBet, bet365, Mr Green and Pinnacle to leave the market.
Bwin appears to be bucking this trend and has informed its Polish customers that it will apply for an operator license and will continue to offer betting services in the market. The company says it is in “constant contact with Polish authorities” during the licensing process.
The country’s new regulations have drawn criticism throughout Europe and are seen as favoring the state-run gambling operator Totlizator Sportowy. The 12 percent tax on betting turnover—rather than win—has been cited by most of the companies leaving the market.
The Polish government, however, says it will support its gambling act, which includes stricter access provisions. The country is also creating a black-list and pursuing IP and bank transfer blocking to several European betting operators.
