Balkan Gaming Federation Formed by Seven National Associations

(AsiaGameHub) –   Seven gaming associations across the Western Balkans have united to establish the Balkan Gaming Federation, a new regional entity designed to foster tighter collaboration regarding regulation, enforcement, and industry growth. The pact was signed in Belgrade at a gathering organized by the Association of Gaming Operators of Serbia, with backing from the Association of Online Gaming and Gambling Operators in Bulgaria.

---

Key Highlights

• The federation unites associations from Serbia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Romania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and North Macedonia.
• The organization intends to prioritize the enforcement of laws against illegal gambling, compliance standards, and the coordination of legislation.
• A subsequent gathering is scheduled for May 26, taking place during the Belgrade Future Gaming expo.

---

A Regional Group Focused on Enforcement and Coordination

The newly formed federation aims to provide a more cohesive voice for the regional gaming sector without supplanting national trade organizations. Rather, it will serve as an overarching platform for operators, suppliers, and technology providers throughout the Balkans.

Its initial focus is on practical matters. The group stated its intention to pool expertise and assets to bolster efforts against illicit gambling, combat unfair competition, and exchange regulatory insights across borders. Additionally, it intends to engage in collaborative lobbying regarding legislation, as well as organize regional events, business alliances, and marketing initiatives designed to elevate the Western Balkans’ standing in the broader European gaming landscape.

During the Belgrade meeting, attendees also examined market statistics, talked about initial contributions, and settled on a tentative brand identity. Furthermore, they established internal communication lines to facilitate smoother coordination of future projects.

Diverse Markets, One Common Platform

The participating nations represent markets that differ significantly. Serbia and Romania possess substantial online gambling industries that draw major international operators. Meanwhile, Croatia and Bulgaria feature robust land-based casino sectors alongside expanding online presence. Bosnia and Herzegovina’s regulatory landscape remains more fragmented, a disparity the federation aims to address.

Another topic of discussion in Belgrade concerned the new entity’s relationship with EUROMAT, the wider European amusement and gaming association. While certain BGF members are already part of EUROMAT, the consensus was that the Balkan organization should operate as an independent regional cluster while maintaining connections to broader European networks.

The roadmap for the near future is established. A further meeting is planned for May 26, with the objective of cementing the federation’s governance framework and selecting a president by the fall of 2026.