Romania is preparing for a major shake-up in its gambling sector. The government is considering a new bill that could completely change the map of the country’s gaming industry. Instead of allowing casinos to operate in cities and residential areas, the plan is to relocate them to resort zones — the very places that drive Romania’s tourism.
The proposal comes from the ruling Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR) party. Lawmakers believe this reform will not only reduce the social impact of gambling but also boost the country’s tourism and local economies. Romania currently recognizes 56 official resort areas, and these destinations could soon become the new heart of the nation’s gaming activity.
The idea behind the plan is simple: integrate gambling into the broader hospitality and leisure industry. Casinos would operate near hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues, creating new jobs and increasing local tax revenue. Policymakers argue that this strategy could transform gambling into a tool for regional growth rather than a social problem. Tourists would stay longer, spend more, and enjoy a wider range of attractions — all within well-regulated resort areas. This move builds on last year’s legislation that banned gambling venues in towns with fewer than 15,000 residents. The new proposal takes things further, aiming to concentrate all casino operations in established tourist resorts with developed infrastructure and security oversight.
However, not everyone is convinced. Critics warn that moving casinos away from cities might push gamblers toward unregulated or online platforms. Others suggest that operators could face significant financial challenges, from relocation costs to meeting stricter compliance standards in the new locations.
Still, the Romanian government remains determined. Officials see this as an opportunity to align gambling with the country’s tourism strategy — a way to make the industry more sustainable, transparent, and beneficial to both investors and communities. If approved, Romania’s approach could become a model for other European countries seeking a balanced way to manage their gambling sectors while supporting economic growth.
