Cyprus must step up efforts to combat illegal gambling and strengthen player protection beyond basic regulatory compliance, according to Panayiotis Trisokkas, chairman of the National Betting Authority.

Speaking at the 9th Safer Gambling Conference on October 12, Trisokkas stressed that effective regulation, stronger prevention and better use of technology are essential to identifying risks before they lead to harm.

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Player Protection Is Key To A Sustainable Market

The conference brought together academics, researchers, regulators and gambling industry professionals from Cyprus and abroad to discuss illegal betting, artificial intelligence, public health concerns and the future of player protection.

“A well-regulated market is a prerequisite for a sustainable market. And a sustainable market is one in which player protection is an integral part of its operation,” Trisokkas said. He cautioned that compliance alone is insufficient, arguing that regulators must continually assess whether existing rules keep pace with market developments and emerging risks.

Technology And Prevention Shape Regulatory Priorities

Discussions also examined developments in European gambling regulation, including stronger player safeguards and growing recognition of gambling-related harm as a public health issue. Speakers explored the psychological and biological factors behind risk-taking, alongside the challenges authorities face in detecting and disrupting illegal gambling.

Artificial intelligence, data analysis and digital tools featured prominently in discussions about identifying problematic behaviour earlier and improving interventions. Trisokkas said these technologies could help the industry better understand player behaviour and strengthen protective measures.

Advertising And Accountability Under Scrutiny

Participants also addressed responsible advertising, the obligations of communications professionals and recent developments in Cyprus’s gambling sector.

Representing the Finance Ministry, Lucy Herodotou Mouskou, director of financial management of the central government, commended the authority’s work while stressing that industry growth must not come at the expense of consumer protection. She argued that economic performance alone should not determine the sector’s success, highlighting the importance of effective regulation, transparency and public safeguards.

Mouskou also conveyed a message from the finance minister emphasizing that economic prosperity must go hand in hand with protecting citizens. People who choose to gamble should do so responsibly and within safe limits, while the state has a duty to support those who exceed them.

Safer Gambling Week Launches Across Cyprus

The conference marked the start of Safer Gambling Week, running from October 12 to 18, with educational events, public awareness campaigns and interactive sessions planned throughout the week.

Under the slogan “Play within limits. Play safely,” this year’s campaign focuses on self-control, recognising harmful behaviour and making informed gambling decisions. It also aims to raise awareness among young people and vulnerable groups about betting risks and the tools available to reduce gambling-related harm.

The full programme is available at sgw.cy/en/program/, while further guidance on responsible gambling can be found at safergambling.gov.cy.