Key Moments
- Italy plans to publish the final gambling reform decree by April 10.
- The decree follows online gambling updates and now focuses on retail reforms.
- New rules will cover gaming machines, betting licences, and regional revenue shares.
Final Gambling Decree Expected by Early April
Italy’s Council of Ministers will release the complete gambling reform decree on April 10. This step reshapes the country’s betting laws. The Unified Conference, which includes representatives from 20 regions and 110 municipalities, is reviewing the final text.
The decree is part of a broader reform. The process began with online gambling rules introduced in November 2025. Now it moves to unify land‑based gaming standards nationwide.
New Retail Structure for Gambling Licences
Italy will introduce a new concession system for retail gambling under the decree. Plans include block bids for gaming machines, structured fees for betting licences, and separate pricing for bingo halls.
For example, packages of thousands of amusement machines and video lottery terminals will face high base bids. Blocks of betting licences will carry fixed unit prices.
Pressure to Enact Reform Amid Unlicensed Market Growth
Policymakers note that delays allowed the unlicensed gambling market to expand. Experts estimate this grey market reaches tens of billions of euros across retail and online channels.
The government aims to stop illegal activity, strengthen oversight, and ensure licensed operators meet higher protection and compliance standards.
Increased Regional Revenue Share
The reform introduces a revenue‑sharing system for regional authorities, as outlined in Italy’s 2026 Budget Law. The government allocated €80 million for local distribution. This gives provinces and municipalities more fiscal involvement.
Licensed operators may open venues only at minimum distances from schools and hospitals. Authorities will issue approvals through a new certification system.
Government Stands by Reform Timeline
Despite political challenges, the Meloni government stays committed to completing the gambling overhaul on time. Officials say the changes will strengthen governance, improve protections, and ensure stable tax revenues.
The decree’s rollout depends on agreements between Rome and regional authorities. Its success requires final terms to be accepted within Italy’s broader regulatory reform framework.
- Author
Daniel Williams
