Montenegro’s Finance Ministry says the proposed restriction would protect established gambling operators without removing a single existing betting shop.
Ministry Says Proposal Misses Its Target
Montenegro’s Finance Ministry has urged MPs to reject an amendment requiring at least 80 metres between new betting venues.
The proposal, submitted by New Serb Democracy MPs Vaso Obradović and Milica Rondović, is intended to curb gambling-related harm by gradually reducing the number of betting locations.
Finance Minister Novica Vuković’s department argues that the plan would do little of the sort.
Existing shops would be allowed to remain, while the restriction would apply only to new branches.
That, according to the ministry, would freeze the current market in place and give established operators a cosy advantage over potential newcomers.
Existing Operators Could Gain Protection
The ministry said betting shops that fail to meet the proposed distance requirement would face no obligation to relocate or close.
New operators and expansion plans would bear the full weight of the rule, making attractive locations harder to enter while current licence holders keep their positions.
Officials described this as unequal treatment rather than a genuine reduction policy. They added that players and local residents would see little immediate change because every existing venue could continue operating under the same conditions.
Government Backs Its Current Approach
The ministry maintains that gambling reforms introduced in August 2025 are already reducing the number of licensed locations and improving enforcement.
Since the new law took effect, inspectors have seized 40 illegal slot machines and terminals, according to the department. Operators have also faced penalties over unlawful advertising and allowing minors to bet.
Authorities have carried out enforcement work across Podgorica, Tuzi, Nikšić, Bar, Ulcinj, Bijelo Polje and Berane. Anti-money laundering checks have also uncovered alleged irregularities and software used to offer casino-style games illegally through betting terminals.
What It Means for Players
For the average bettor, the proposed 80-metre rule is unlikely to change the high street anytime soon. It would block some new shops, but it would not shut those already trading.
The bigger question is whether Montenegro focuses on venue spacing or continues targeting illegal machines, underage gambling and unlicensed operators. The ministry has made its preference fairly plain: chase the black market first, rather than hand the existing betting industry a protective fence.
Further amendments aimed at tightening controls on illegal gambling remain before parliament.
