
In a statement to the media, Prime Minister Edi Rama said he intends to close all betting points in the country, starting in 2019.
"No betting odds will be raised from 1 January. Electronic casinos and sports betting will be ceased to run, and every type of track, horses, or dog bats, "Rama said.
The prime minister appealed to the Audiovisual Media Authority to ensure law enforcement in respect of advertisements of betting engagement entities. "We will close any online page that will hold banner ads in violation of the law," he added.
According to Top Channel, addiction to gambling has removed 132m euros from the pocket for only one year. The situation is alarming mainly in Tirana, Elbasan and Durres. On the other hand, gambling is among the biggest employers in the private sector.