Italy’s retail gambling sector urges temporary measures after reform delay

The retail gambling sector in Italy has asked the Government for urgent temporary measures following the postponement of the reform that was to reorganise the market and with retail concessions due to expire on 31 December 2026. The rule that was to set the framework for new tenders was shelved after the executive missed its 29 August deadline, and operators are demanding that a public–private consultative forum be opened immediately to plan the tender specifications.

Concessions and timetable

Retail concessions covering betting, bingo, Amusement With Prizes (AWP) and Video Lottery Terminals (VLT) are scheduled to expire on 31 December 2026. The decree intended to reorganise the retail segment was not approved before the 29 August deadline set by the Government. In the meantime, an extension of current arrangements is expected, which could leave the retail network in the protracted uncertainty it has already faced for several years.

Industry requests

Associazione Gestori Scommesse Italia (AGSI), which represents betting venues, has asked the Government for temporary support measures for gaming machines, horse racing and sports betting until new tenders are launched. AGSI president Pasquale Chiacchio told the trade title Jamma:

“Gaming machines, horse racing and betting cannot wait three years”, Pasquale Chiacchio, president of AGSI, Jamma.

AGSI asks that the transition period be used to improve the competitiveness of retail outlets by authorising additional products that can be sold in betting shops and authorised venues. Chiacchio cited the 1998–1999 pilot that introduced sports betting into race agencies as an effective example of innovation to support the retail network.

Consultative forum and market balance

The association calls for a consultative forum bringing together Government representatives, public institutions and industry stakeholders to draft tender requirements immediately. AGSI seeks a future framework that allows small and medium operators to compete alongside major groups and advocates for a more balanced national retail network with trained employees; it pointed to Campania's regional legislation as a possible model.

Market size and contrast with online

The retail channel still generates roughly three quarters of Italy's gambling market, valued at more than €21bn. The online sector already operates under a new concessions framework, with additional rules due to take effect on 13 November, while reform of the physical segment has not yet begun. The industry hopes the Government will open the [public–private forum](/regulation) and consider interim measures that stabilise the retail network while preparations for new tenders continue; trade reaction and market figures are being tracked in [news coverage](/news).