A number of changes could come to the industry if the reforms are approved
Italy is preparing to rewrite its land-based gambling rules, taking a major step toward aligning regulations across the country’s regions and municipalities. The government plans to release a draft decree that would modernize how retail gambling is licensed, managed, and supervised nationwide.
The proposed changes follow nearly two years of talks between national officials and local authorities. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s administration aims to replace a fragmented system with clearer national standards covering slot machines, bingo halls, and VLT networks. The draft is expected to be reviewed by the Council of Ministers before moving through parliamentary channels.
Oversight of the reform has been led by the Ministry of Economy and Finance, working closely with Italy’s Agency of Customs and Monopolies. Once approved at the cabinet level, the proposal will be discussed with regional representatives, though no firm rollout date has been set.
The land-based update follows last year’s overhaul of Italy’s online gambling framework, which introduced new licensing and tax rules. Attention has now shifted to physical venues, where officials are signaling a tighter, more controlled retail footprint.
Early details suggest fewer locations will be allowed to host gaming machines. The total number of venues is expected to drop by about 10%, while betting shops will remain capped nationally. The distinction between standalone betting shops and betting corners inside bars is also set to disappear.
Machine numbers are also targeted for reduction, with fewer slot machines and VLTs planned across the country. Alongside this, a new certification system will require operators to meet stricter standards on player protection and underage access.
Minimum distance rules from schools, hospitals, and treatment centers would become uniform nationwide. The decree also proposes mandatory daily closure periods, varying by certification status.
New concession tenders are expected later this year and could bring in close to €2 billion (US$2.40b) in tax revenue. Industry consolidation has already reshaped the market, leaving smaller operators watching closely as the new rules take shape.
