“Distinction between recreation and addiction must be highlighted”

According to recent figures, gaming revenue in Cyprus has been growing and pushing the state over the last few years, especially thanks to OPAP games.

Cyprus.- The gambling industry is a major contributor to state coffers in every country it regulates it. That’s why gaming revenue in Cyprus has been pushing the state’s figures as it grows over the last few years.

The industry got a major push from OPAP games, which totalled €38.9 million between 2017 and September 2019. It stood at €13.8 million in 2017, €14.5 million in 2018, and €10.5 million up to September this year.

According to the Ministry of Finance, the state lottery and satellite casinos also pushed gaming revenue in Cyprus. State lottery contributed €29.2 million from tickets’ sales.

Moreover, satellite casinos gaming revenue in Cyprus reached €21.1 million between 2018 and October 2019.

Responsible gambling

Cyprus is soon to host the first integrated resort (IR) in Europe and is currently home to multiple satellite casinos. As part of its campaign to improve the regulatory scheme in the country, the Cyprus betting authority hosted the second responsible gaming in Nicosia.

Finance Minister Harris Georgiades said that creating a culture that prevents the problematic occupation with betting is crucial, Cyprus Mail reported. “It is exactly the distinction between recreation and addiction that must be highlighted. Between the recreational experience and problematic behaviour,” he said.

The national betting authority hosted the conference on Monday, along with the national gaming and casino supervision authority. Over 300 delegates from the industry attended the event, which aimed at informing the public on responsible gaming.