Like many countries that have inadequate gambling regulations, Albania is often accused of allowing money laundering at gaming operations. In March this year the Albanian Finance Ministry reported that gambling activity was increasing in the country following the setting up of a government department to monitor gaming.

A new law in force since January prohibits those under the age of 18 from entering betting shops but reportedly this is widely ignored. According to a spokesman from the tax office, gambling revenues have continued a steep rise over several years. In 2008 Albanians wagered more than US$100 million, an increase of US$40 million on 2007.

Last weekend an operation by state police inspected over 260 gambling parlours and found around 65 were functioning without the required licence. According to a report by Balkan Insight, financial auditors from the tax department were involved in the operation and 400 electronic gaming machines were confiscated. (E-12.10.09)

© Copyright 2009 CasinoCompendium



>>> return to archives
>>> return to frontpage