Cyprus may feel the wrath of the EU

Online gambling is allowed in Cyprus due to a loophole in local legislation which allows EU regulated casino operators to offer Cypriots with their services via internet cafes, betting shops and websites with permission of the Cypriot Attorney General.

However now the local government is moving towards changing legislation to close this loophole and thus allowing local gaming monopoly OPAP SA greater success by offering them a gambling playing field free of all competition.

This move, although not yet enforced, is angering EU regulators as it will discriminate against operators from other Member States and thus in violation of EU laws.

Only time will tell if the new legislation will be approved and if so what response the EU commission will have to such a move.