President Aleksandr Lukashenko of Belarus has urged the Council of Ministers to implement comprehensive reforms aimed at enhancing consumer protection in the gambling sector. In a recent meeting, Lukashenko emphasized the need for measures to better safeguard consumers.
Belarus Wants Tougher Consumer Protection Measures
The President proposed that payments to foreign gambling websites, which often operate without a license and can be exploitative, should be prohibited. Blocking these payment methods is the most effective way to prevent consumers from engaging in offshore gambling, according to Lukashenko.
He also advocated for continued efforts to mitigate gambling-related harm, suggesting that individuals should have the option to self-exclude from gambling, particularly those exhibiting signs of problem gambling. Another proposed measure involves blocking credit cards for gambling, as this can lead to significant debt and impact individuals’ financial and personal lives.
Lukashenko emphasized the need for more robust consumer protection measures, particularly for children and vulnerable players. He suggested that banks should be prohibited from transferring gambling-related funds outside Belarus to ensure the money stays and benefits the country.
Understanding the current gambling environment in Belarus, Lukashenko acknowledged how gambling businesses exploit vulnerable consumers and stressed the importance of finalizing rules to prevent such practices.
Black Market Operations Not a Universal Belarusian Issue
Lukashenko highlighted that vulnerable gamblers often incur debt, take out loans, or sell property, spending the proceeds with foreign operators, and called for immediate action. The problem with unlicensed websites is not unique to Belarus. In Belgium, for example, approximately 25% of players use unlicensed platforms, while in the Netherlands, up to 50% of online gross gaming revenue might be generated offshore.
- SCCG Management. The Gambling Industry’s Global Connector. Access Here.
- Source: SCCGManagement.com