Understanding Online Gambling Landscape in Bulgaria
Bulgaria has a rich gambling tradition. Card games, such as Tablanet and Belen, have been enjoyed for decades, while Dama, a game similar to checkers, has been played in the country for centuries.
Unfortunately, legal gambling is a relatively recent phenomenon in Bulgaria, as until 1991, gambling was banned in the country. However, the fall of the Soviet Union put in motion comprehensive changes. It prompted the development of Bulgaria’s legal gambling scene, which culminated with the legalisation of online gambling in 2012 with the Gambling Act.
These days, all forms of gambling are legal in the country. In addition to online gambling sites, players can legally play at land-based casinos, retail and online sportsbooks, and lotteries. Moreover, the numbers and stats unequivocally point to a constant increase in the popularity of online gambling.
According to Statista’s data on online casinos in Bulgaria, online casino revenue will reach $50.87 million in 2024 and increase by 5.25% annually, resulting in a market volume of $65.70 million by 2029. Similarly, the number of online casino players is expected to reach 237,400 by 2029, with online gambler revenue averaging $249.70. With the legal framework aligning with international standards, online gambling is expected to continue its steady growth in Bulgaria.