Armenia Strengthens Controls Against Illegal Online Gambling

Armenia.- 10 July 2026 www.zonadeazar.com Armenia is moving forward with new legislative amendments designed to combat the growth of illegal online gambling. The reforms aim to accelerate the blocking of unauthorised websites, restrict payments to unlicensed operators and tighten advertising rules across the sector.

News Details

Armenia’s Parliament adopted amendments to the Law on the Regulation of Gaming Activities, the Law on Advertising and related legislation in the second and final reading. The measures will allow illegal gambling platforms to be blocked quickly through a dedicated online resource and restrict gambling advertising to authorised physical locations, such as company offices and building facades.

The reforms also seek to strengthen oversight of licensed operators and prevent unauthorised platforms from reaching the local market through websites, mobile applications, digital advertising or banking channels.

Industry Context

Armenia’s online gambling market has expanded rapidly in recent years, driven by mobile apps and digital platforms. In response, authorities are seeking to reinforce regulation, protect consumers and reduce the reach of unlicensed offshore operators.

The wider regulatory agenda also includes player protection measures, including tighter controls on vulnerable individuals and new self-exclusion tools.

Next Steps or Impact

The Government will now need to implement the practical mechanisms for website blocking, advertising controls and payment supervision. The reform could become a regional reference point for tackling illegal online gambling through stronger coordination between regulators, financial institutions and digital service providers.

Edited by: @_fonta