Regulators Unite to Build a Safer, Smarter European iGaming Market: Rome, Italy, The opening day of the SiGMA Central Europe Summit set the stage for a high-level discussion on the future of European iGaming regulation. One of the event’s highlights on the Affiliate Leaders Stage was the panel “Voices of Authority: Inside Europe’s Regulatory Roundtable,” which brought together top regulatory leaders from across the continent. Each panellist shared valuable perspectives on how national frameworks could evolve toward a more cohesive, transparent, and resilient European iGaming market.
The discussion featured an esteemed lineup: Maarten Haijer, Secretary General of the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA); Jānis Ungurs, Director of the Legal Department at Latvia’s Lotteries and Gambling Supervisory Inspection; Alexsandar Popov, Director of Bulgaria’s Directorate Supervision of Gambling and Gambling Activities; Panagiotis Trisokkas, President of the Cyprus National Betting Authority; and Dott. Antonio Giuliani, Manager at Italy’s Customs and Monopolies Agency (ADM).
Towards a Common European Regulatory Vision
Despite differing legal traditions and market realities, all panellists recognised the growing need for greater regulatory alignment across Europe. Market fragmentation remains a challenge as authorities must balance national priorities with the shared goals of cross-border competitiveness and consumer protection. The speakers agreed that harmonised regulatory principles could enhance trust in the industry and reduce operational burdens for licensed operators, affiliates, and partners alike.
The EGBA was positioned as a central player in driving this alignment, serving as a bridge between private operators and public regulators. By fostering collaboration, the association supports policies that promote compliance, transparency, and responsible gambling across EU member states.
National Perspectives: Innovation Through Cooperation
Latvia is advancing a data-driven approach to supervision, placing player welfare and technological monitoring at the heart of its oversight model. Bulgaria continues to champion predictability and fair competition, focusing on eliminating unlicensed operations to protect legitimate market participants.
Cyprus, meanwhile, is deepening its cross-border cooperation, improving mechanisms for information sharing to combat illegal betting activities. As the summit’s host nation, Italy’s ADM showcased its progress in digitalising regulatory processes, enhancing traceability, and building stronger engagement with stakeholders to strengthen the country’s gaming landscape.
Shaping the Future of European iGaming Governance
The roundtable underscored a shared conviction that Europe’s iGaming future depends on technology-led, transparent, and collaborative regulation. By deepening cooperation between national authorities, the EGBA, and policymakers, Europe can ensure that consumer protection and market innovation progress hand in hand.
As the European iGaming sector continues its rapid growth, the dialogue in Rome reflected a united vision of trust, accountability, and modern governance. Together, regulators are laying the foundations for a market where both players and operators can prosper under fair, responsible, and future-ready oversight.
For more insights from the SiGMA Central Europe Summit, visit the SiGMA website.
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