The Slovakian Gambling Regulatory Authority (URHH) has reported a significant shift in the country’s gambling landscape, with online gambling revenue surging by 30% to nearly €476 million in 2024. The total legal gambling spend in Slovakia reached €24.2 billion, reflecting an 11% increase from the previous year. However, as digital gaming thrives, the regulator anticipates a decline in land-based gambling revenue in 2025 due to stricter local regulations. Meanwhile, the Slovak government saw a 15% increase in gambling tax revenue, reinforcing the industry’s growing economic footprint. Regulatory challenges remain, particularly in tackling illegal gambling operations.

Slovakia’s Gambling Market Overview: A Year of Strong Growth

Total Player Spend: Slovakia’s gambling sector saw €24.2 billion in total player expenditure in 2024, up 11% from 2023.
Revenue Growth: Gambling revenue across all verticals reached €1.45 billion, marking a 9.6% increase year-on-year.
Online Boom: The standout performer was online gambling, where revenue jumped 30% to €476 million, solidifying its dominance in the market.
Consumer Behavior Shifts: According to URHH director general Martin Bohoš, the sector’s growth is driven by technological innovation, evolving player habits, and improved regulatory oversight.
This data highlights the transformative impact of digital gambling on Slovakia’s gaming industry.

Online Gambling Dominates the Market

Market Share Expansion: Online casinos now hold the largest market share, outpacing traditional gambling establishments.
Player Winnings: Out of €12.18 billion wagered online, €11.7 billion was paid out in winnings, illustrating the sector’s liquidity and player engagement.
Regulatory Adaptation: The URHH’s progressive approach has contributed to the legal online gambling market’s expansion, ensuring consumer protection and industry compliance.
As Slovakia embraces digital gaming, traditional land-based operators face increasing pressure to adapt.

Land-Based Casinos Face Challenges

Total Land-Based Revenue: Despite generating €480 million in 2024, the URHH warns of potential declines in 2025.
Breakdown of Revenue Sources:
Gambling rooms: €340 million
Casinos: €140 million
Stricter Regulations: New local government restrictions are expected to impact brick-and-mortar establishments, reducing their competitiveness.
Risk of Illegal Gambling Growth: The regulator has cautioned that these changes may push players toward unlicensed platforms, necessitating enhanced monitoring mechanisms.
The anticipated downturn in physical casino revenue underscores the growing dominance of online platforms.

Gambling Tax Revenue Surges by 15%

Total Gambling Tax Revenue: Slovakia’s government collected €347.3 million in gambling taxes in 2024, a 15% increase year-over-year.
Sector-Specific Contributions:
Online casinos: Up 35% to €126.1 million
Casino gambling: Up 26% to €16.4 million
Numerical lotteries: Up 9% to €47.6 million
Gambling rooms: Down 5% to €58.95 million
The increased tax revenue highlights the financial significance of Slovakia’s gambling industry despite shifts in market dynamics.

Regulatory Landscape: A Battle Against Illegal Operators

Online Gambling Regulation: Slovakia legalized online gambling on March 1, 2019, allowing foreign operators to apply for sports betting and casino licenses.
Crackdown on Illegal Websites: In 2024, the URHH blacklisted 89 additional illegal gambling sites, bringing the total number of banned platforms to 820.
Dedicated Online Oversight: A specialized department within URHH, launched in November 2022, continues to monitor and take action against illegal gambling platforms.
By tightening regulatory controls, Slovakia aims to protect players and sustain a stable, licensed gaming market.

What Lies Ahead for Slovakia’s Gambling Industry?

Online Growth Continues: The trajectory suggests further dominance of digital platforms, with new entrants expected to boost competition.
Land-Based Sector Struggles: With tighter regulations at the local level, casinos and gambling rooms face revenue pressures in 2025.
Regulatory Evolution: The URHH has emphasized its commitment to refining oversight mechanisms, ensuring a well-regulated and transparent market.
The industry’s future hinges on the ability of regulators and operators to balance digital expansion with responsible gaming policies.