Key Moments:
- Libuša Baranová was appointed as director general of Slovakia’s Office for the Regulation of Gambling (ÚRHH) in October.
- Major legislative changes affecting gambling regulation, tax rates, and consumer protection will take effect in January 2026.
- Slovakia’s online casino sector recorded nearly 30 percent GGR growth and 35 percent increase in tax contributions in 2024.
Recent Leadership and Legislative Developments
Libuša Baranová assumed the role of director general at Slovakia’s Office for the Regulation of Gambling (ÚRHH). She has committed to maintaining the Authority’s regulatory priorities during a transformational period for the sector. The Ministry of Finance confirmed her appointment in October. It comes as Slovakia undergoes major legislative changes designed to consolidate public finances and reshape gambling oversight.
Recent decisions by the government and parliament introduced higher gambling tax rates. They also added stricter conditions to fight illegal online gambling. These measures also affect supervisory protocols. They define how local governments may restrict or prohibit casinos and gambling establishments. All such provisions are set to become effective in January 2026. From January 2026, the Gambling Regulation Authority will take over consumer protection duties in gambling. This responsibility was previously held by the Slovak Trade Inspection Authority.
Ensuring Stability Amid Change
Baranová emphasized that recent changes in ÚRHH’s leadership will not alter the institution’s policy direction. Her objectives focus on reinforcing the regulator’s internal management and resilience during a phase of austerity, while supporting the agency’s expanded mandate covering consumer protection. Collaboration with the Ministry of Finance remains a top priority, especially as Slovakia prepares to introduce a new gambling policy framework during the 2023-2027 legislative cycle.
Market Performance and Compliance Trends
Slovakia’s gambling landscape, particularly the online casino segment, demonstrated robust growth following the Covid-19 pandemic. In 2024, online casinos experienced almost 30 percent gross gaming revenue increase and a 35 percent rise in taxes paid to the state. Expectations point toward similar gains in 2025. This momentum mirrors consumer preferences increasingly shaped by digital engagement, facilitated by advancements in information technology.
| Segment | GGR Growth (2024) | Tax Contribution Growth (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Online Casinos | ~30% | 35% |
Regulatory compliance remains at the forefront of the Authority’s agenda. Efforts to combat illegal gambling are ongoing and are expected to intensify with the expanded focus on anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing in 2026.
Regulatory Challenges and the Role of Technology
Differences in regulating online and land-based gambling venues require careful oversight. Online operators must comply with regulations regarding excluded persons, self-restriction tools, and the dissemination of information on addiction and financial risks. Since 2023, operators must also adhere to the Responsible Advertising Code, although this standard is self-regulated and outside the Authority’s enforcement scope. Anticipated consumer protection regulations in 2026 will empower the Authority to oversee and sanction unfair commercial practices among online gambling operators.
With Slovakia’s gambling sector evolving alongside European and global trends, Baranová highlighted the importance of technological innovation, such as artificial intelligence and data analytics, in shaping regulatory policy and industry practices. These advancements are expected to enhance both regulatory efficacy and the development of responsible gaming measures.
“We do not underestimate the dynamics of change in the field of technological innovation and strive to keep pace with current developments in the use of artificial intelligence and data analysis tools.”
– Libuša Baranová, director general of Slovakia’s Office for the Regulation of Gambling (ÚRHH).
Cross-Border Collaboration
ÚRHH maintains close ties with regulatory bodies in the Czech Republic and participates in international forums such as the International Association of Gaming Regulators. The Authority regularly exchanges insights with European counterparts, with an expectation that further harmonization of legislation across the continent, especially in anti-money laundering and consumer protection, may occur in the future.
Engagement with Stakeholders
Transparent and balanced regulation is supported through ongoing engagement with operators, local authorities, and policymakers. The Authority intends to actively contribute to a new state policy for gambling, working alongside the Ministry of Finance to establish a legislative environment that prioritizes safe and responsible gambling practices.
- Author
Daniel Williams
