Sports betting in the Republic of Moldova is governed primarily by Law No. 291/2016 on the organization and conduct of gambling, which designates most gambling activities as a state monopoly. While the National Lottery of Moldova holds exclusive rights to operate lotteries, gaming halls, and sports betting, private operators are not permitted to offer these services without explicit authorization by the state (1).
Under this framework, only the state‐owned lottery may organize and carry out sports betting on competitions and events. All other entities that engage in sports betting without state sanction are considered to be conducting gambling activities illegally. Enforcement and oversight are carried out by the Agency for Consumer Protection and Market Surveillance (1).
"Activitatea Loteriei Naţionale a Moldovei nu este supusă licenţierii și cuprinde următoarele jocuri de noroc: organizarea şi desfăşurarea loteriilor; organizarea funcţionării sălilor de joc cu automate de joc cu câştiguri băneşti; organizarea şi desfăşurarea pariurilor pentru competiţiile/evenimentele sportive; organizarea jocurilor de noroc prin intermediul reţelelor de comunicaţii electronice."
Entities wishing to offer licensed gambling services—such as casino maintenance—must apply for a license under Article 14 of the same law. However, this licensing regime does not extend to sports betting for private operators; only the National Lottery may lawfully run bets on sporting events (2).
Source:
https://consumator.gov.md/rom/comunicate-de-presa/jocurile-de-noroc-domeniul-supravegherii-de-stat-a-agentiei-pentru-protectia-consumatorilor-si-supravegherea-pietei
https://servicii.gov.md/service/003000537
Last updated: 28-05-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
