Romania's cities rush to ban gambling venues under new emergency rules
Romania is cracking down on gambling as cities move to ban betting shops and slot machine venues. An emergency decree now allows local authorities to restrict or veto gambling operations. At least nine cities have already announced full bans, with dozens more considering similar action. The emergency decree gives mayors new powers to control gambling in their areas. Slatina’s mayor, Mario De Mezzo, has already pledged to remove all gambling venues from the city. Meanwhile, Bucharest’s mayor, Ciprian Cucu, proposed a different approach—restricting gambling to specific zones like the Old Town rather than an outright ban.
Other cities are following suit. The mayors of Iași, Ploiești, and Brăila are now weighing up similar restrictions. Across Romania, over 200 localities could introduce full bans in the coming months.
The gambling industry has grown rapidly in recent years, with tens of thousands of slot machines and betting outlets spread nationwide. In 2025 alone, the sector contributed nearly €1bn (around $1.1bn) in state taxes. But new rules mean operators must now secure a separate license for each municipality they work in.
On top of local restrictions, parliament is debating stricter national measures. Proposals include raising the minimum gambling age to 21 and capping losses at 10% of a player’s declared income. The emergency decree marks a major shift in how gambling is regulated in Romania. Cities now have the authority to block or limit betting shops, while operators face tighter licensing rules. With more bans likely, the industry could see significant changes in where and how it operates.
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