**Ukraine Dissolves Gambling Regulator, Creates New Agency**
The Ukrainian Commission for Regulation of Gambling and Lotteries (CRGL) will be shut down on April 1. A new state agency called PlayCity will take its place. The goal is to make the gambling business more digital and strong.
For a long time, Ukraine’s gambling industry has had problems. These include weak rules, unclear taxes, and many illegal operators. Some of these businesses have ties to Russia and are being investigated or punished by Ukrainian authorities.
The Digital Transformation Ministry says that CRGL didn’t do its job well. This led the government to make changes. PlayCity will be in charge of making stricter rules and stopping illegal gambling. It will also target casinos linked to Russia.
**Government Hopes for More Taxes**
The government hopes that legal gambling and lotteries will bring in up to 10 billion hryvnias (around $240 million) per year. This money will go towards Ukraine’s defense needs.
**Creating a Fair Industry**
The ministry says that the reform will make sure everyone follows the same rules and that the government can do its job properly. It hopes this will help the Ukrainian economy grow.
Gambling was banned in Ukraine until 2020, when it was partially allowed again. Now, law enforcement is looking into over 450 cases related to illegal gambling operations.
**Concerns Over Gambling Addiction**
There are worries about people becoming addicted to gambling, especially among soldiers. A petition calling for restrictions on online gambling has been sent to the presidential office. Last year, President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree restricting online gambling and banning military personnel from participating while martial law is in effect.
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