Legislation

Latvia’s Illegal Gambling Market Still Drains Millions Despite Regulatory Efforts

Wednesday 22 de April 2026 / 12:00

⏱ 1 min read

(Latvia).- New analysis warns shadow economy could cost €90M by 2030 as unlicensed operators remain resilient

Latvia’s Illegal Gambling Market Still Drains Millions Despite Regulatory Efforts

A new study by H2 Gambling Capital reveals that Latvia’s online gambling shadow economy continues to pose a significant fiscal threat, with an estimated €90 million in lost state revenue by 2030. Despite tighter regulations, the illegal segment remains deeply entrenched.

The report projects that gross gambling revenue from unlicensed operators will reach €62 million in 2025—nearly double earlier forecasts. Although the share of illegal operators has declined from 39% in 2019 to 27% in 2025, this reduction falls short of previous expectations, highlighting slower-than-anticipated progress.

Experts point to high taxes, product restrictions, and limited legal offerings as key drivers sustaining demand for unlicensed platforms. The market remains highly fragmented, with over 1,000 accessible gambling sites, many operating through mirror domains that complicate enforcement.

Looking ahead, H2GC does not expect a sharp decline in the illegal sector, forecasting it will still account for 22% of the market by 2030. Growth in cryptocurrency casinos and “skin betting” platforms—responsible for nearly a quarter of unlicensed web traffic—continues to fuel the shadow economy both in Latvia and globally.

Documento adjunto
Descargar PDF

Categoría:Legislation

Tags: Sin tags

País: Latvia

Región: EMEA

Event

BiS SiGMA South America 2026

06 de April 2026

Fast Track Showcases AI-Powered CRM Innovation at BIS Sigma South America 2026

(São Paulo, SoloAzar Exclusive).- At the recent BIS Sigma Edition, Fast Track highlighted how its AI-driven CRM solutions are reshaping operator strategies in Brazil’s newly regulated iGaming market. Muriel Le Senechal, Regional Commercial Manager for LatAm, shared insights on the industry’s shift from acquisition to retention, emphasizing the role of automation, personalization, and real-time engagement in driving sustainable growth.

Tuesday 12 May 2026 / 12:00

Pay4Fun’s Leonardo Baptista on BiS SiGMA South America 2026: Regulation, Market Maturity and Brazil’s Expanding Opportunities

(São Paulo, SoloAzar Exclusive).-In this interview at BiS SiGMA South America 2026, Leonardo Baptista, CEO and co-founder of Pay4Fun, shares insights on the event’s strategic importance for the Latin American gaming industry. He highlights the growing maturity of regulatory discussions, the increasing focus on compliance and sustainability, and the expanding opportunities in Brazil—one of the most promising regulated markets globally.

Thursday 07 May 2026 / 12:00

Air Dice Strengthens LATAM Presence with BiS SiGMA São Paulo Trade Show

(São Paulo, SoloAzar Exclusive).- Erkki Nikunen, Partner & CBDO at Air Dice, discussed the company’s participation at BiS SiGMA São Paulo. In this exclusive conversation with SoloAzar, he shares insights on their experience as exhibitors, business opportunities generated, and the company’s vision for Brazil and the wider Latin American market.

Wednesday 06 May 2026 / 12:00

SUSCRIBIRSE

Para suscribirse a nuestro newsletter, complete sus datos

Reciba todo el contenido más reciente en su correo electrónico varias veces al mes.