In March 2005 the Slovak Republic enacted amendments to the operation of gambling games, including the National Lottery and ‘bet’ games such as sports betting or similar. The Slovak lottery TIPOS was established in 1992 and is represented by the Ministry of Finance. Funds produced by the operation of the lottery games must be used for community projects involving sport, education, culture, or environment protection.

The purpose of the Act is to create the necessary conditions for ‘the protection of public order during the operation of gambling games and securing community compensation of risks ensuing from the operation of gambling games and participation in them.’ The Slovak Republic’s Ministry of Finance issues gambling licences, including a licence for the operation of gambling games by means of the Internet. On 7 June 2006 Tipos introduced the first Internet casino in Slovakia, with roulette, blackjack, poker, 3-reel slot and 5-reeal slot. During the first month nearly 700,000 games were played for money.

Lottery activity in Slovakia over the last few weeks has been intense, with a record amount to be won. SKK 800 million (US$34.7 million) was bet before the right numbers were guessed by two people who shared SKK186 million (US$8 million). Last year Tipos made record revenues and, with the increasing popularity of Internet play, looks set to exceed expectations in 2007. In 2006 Tipos paid US$25.6 million in taxes and the state collected an additional US$2.6 million in dividends. (E-11.05.07)

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