Poland is making amendments to its online gambling regulations that will restrict online casino games to the national lottery operator Totalizator Sportowy. The move means international operators will probably not be able to legally enter the Polish market.
The country has formerly legalized online sports betting options within its borders and has recently authorized online poker and casino games. That left many international operators hoping that they would be able to enter the Polish market, but that seems unlikely under the new amendments.
The amendments would mean Totalizator Sportowy will be granted control over all games of chance that will be provided online. Lawmakers said they are implementing a state monopoly over slot games because they are “the most addictive” forms of gambling and Totalizator Sportowy will be required to prepare measures focused on the promotion of responsible gambling.
The monopoly, however, applies to online slots, and online poker operators will likely be able to enter the country’s regulated market. Also, private groups will no longer be prohibited from organizing land-based poker tournaments. At present, Poland’s residents are allowed to play poker in local casinos only.
The amended gambling law will now be presented to the European Commission. After the EU’s review, it will go before the Polish legislature for final approval.
