Unibet applies for Romanian gambling licence
Stockholm-listed firm prepares to join Stanleybet and Netbet as one of the first operators to launch in the recently re-regulated market
Unibet has applied for an online gambling licence in the newly regulated Romanian market, with the operator telling eGaming Review it would continue to work with the regulator to ensure “sustainable operating conditions” in the country.
In an email sent to Unibet affiliates on Tuesday, and seen by eGaming Review, the operator said it hoped to join the likes of Stanleybet, NetBet and Winmasters and obtain a permit from the regulator the National Office for Gambling (ONJN).
“While Unibet is still analysing the licence requirements/conditions, we would like to let you know that Unibet is in the process of going ahead with its application for a Romanian licence,” the email said.
“We will contact those partners currently referring Romanian customers in a separate communication in the coming days with more information on this matter,” the email continued.
And speaking with eGR this morning, Unibet’s general counsel Ewout Keuleers said the operator was working closely with the regulator while secondary regulations are still being drafted and pending EU review.
“Unibet will apply for a licence and we will continue a positive and constructive dialogue with the regulator to ensure sustainable operational conditions that support optimal channelling as gaming policy enabler,” Keuleers said.
News of Unibet’s licence application comes after Romania’s government voted in favour of a ‘back tax’ amendment in May which requires operators seeking a licence in the country to return 20% of revenues derived from the country since 26 December 2010.
Last month eGR revealed that Betfair would meet Romania’s back tax requirement in order to obtain a licence.