In Sofia, Bulgarian lawmakers have introduced significant amendments to potentially transform the country’s gambling industry, particularly the lottery and sports betting sectors. This new proposal, which has swiftly moved through parliament, aims to allow a private company to manage the state lottery and sports betting for a minimum of 15 years, marking a departure from the current state-controlled system under the Bulgarian Sports Totalizator, a monopoly since 2020.
Currently, the Bulgarian Sports Totalizator is struggling to meet its revenue objectives, having failed to achieve targets for two consecutive years. In 2023, revenues amounted to BGN 170 million, falling short of the BGN 190 million goal. Similarly, in 2024, the organization reported BGN 182.6 million, against a planned BGN 188.7 million. Analysts attribute this underperformance to low channelisation rates, with many consumers preferring private or international platforms. Advocates of the new proposal argue that the state monopoly lacks the competitive edge necessary to thrive and that a concession model would attract better technology, investment, and operational expertise.
Under this proposal, a public tender is slated to open by 31 March 2026. Eligibility is restricted to companies registered in Bulgaria or foreign operators maintaining a physical presence within the nation. The selected bidder would gain comprehensive control over the Bulgarian Sports Totalizator’s retail outlets, systems, equipment, and intellectual property. Following the commencement of the concession, the state-run entity would exit the gambling market entirely, with all existing lottery tickets and betting slips being invalidated and destroyed.
The responsibility for oversight transfers to the Minister of Youth and Sports. The financial framework of the concession is also set to transform; ten percent of the concessionaire’s corporate tax contributions will be directed to the ministry, partially funding the National Culture Fund. Furthermore, 30 percent of the concession fee is earmarked for sports clubs and federations.
Despite the optimism of proponents, the proposal has met with political tension and skepticism. Opposition MPs express concerns about the timing and underlying motivations, fearing potential benefits for groups linked to the DPS–New Beginning party and businessman-turned-politician Delyan Peevski. Questions of a conflict of interest have arisen, particularly since Peevski’s mother once led the Bulgarian Sports Totalizator. Efforts to establish a parliamentary commission to scrutinize the proposal have been thwarted.
This reform represents a pivotal shift for Bulgaria’s gambling industry, reminiscent of the 2020 transition when the state assumed control of lottery operations after the collapse of Vasil Bozhkov’s business empire and subsequent allegations against former regulators. Should the proposal pass in the upcoming reading on 28 November, Bulgaria will transition from a fully state-managed model to a long-term private concession structure, fundamentally altering lottery and sports betting operations for at least the next decade.
Proponents argue that this shift is necessary to boost Bulgaria’s competitive stance in the gaming industry, attracting new investments and innovations. They suggest that by opening the market to private enterprises, Bulgaria could see a modernization of operations and an increase in market share previously lost to international platforms. However, critics remain wary of the potential for cronyism and the concentration of power that could follow such a transition.
The debate reflects broader conversations within Europe about the role of privatization in state-run industries, particularly in sectors heavily reliant on regulation and public trust. While some view privatization as a catalyst for efficiency and growth, others warn of losing control over critical national interests and the risks of market monopolization.
As the November parliamentary vote approaches, stakeholders on both sides of the debate are gearing up for what promises to be a landmark decision in Bulgaria’s economic and regulatory landscape. The outcome will not only influence the future of gambling in Bulgaria but could set a precedent for other countries considering similar reforms in their state-run industries.
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