Lithuania’s parliament has passed a law that bans gambling promotion activities in all forms. The parliament passed an amendment to the effect on the country’s Law on Gambling, with 105 votes in favour and 14 abstentions.
With the new law coming into the effect, gambling operators will not be allowed to conduct gambling trials, distribute gambling chips, perform other promotions, or offer gifts and discounts.
The new law came into effect after sustained public campaign against the gambling operators in the country, who faced accusations of not following Covid-19 protocols.
One of the campaigners Aurelijus Veryga, of the Lithuanian Farmers and Greens Union, welcomed the new amendment: “It is a type of activity that costs too much for some people in terms of health and not just money.” told MPs.
Virginijus Dauksys, the director of the Gaming Control Authority, had said that the the Covid-19 crisis worsened the situation of the gambling industry in the country. He confirmed that the authority had received many complaints about gambling operators for not fulfilling their obligations and delivering on their promises made while inviting people to gamble.
The passing of the law expectantly drew a bitter reaction from the gambling fraternity. Mantas Zakarka, a representative of Lithuania’s National Gambling and Gaming Business Association, said that the ban would prevent entry of new operators into the market and would boost shadow businesses.
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