Latvia’s Ministry of Finance Proposes Raising Gambling Age to 21

Lina Almans

29 April 2023

Comment 0

Latvia’s Ministry of Finance is pushing for a ban on gambling for individuals under 21 years old, as per proposed amendments to the country’s gambling and lottery law, Baltijas Balls reports.

It’s worth noting that Latvian law currently prohibits individuals under the age of 18 from gambling.
This move comes after a study conducted by Latvia’s Ministry of Health two years ago revealed that a majority of surveyed individuals started gambling before the age of 20.

As indicated by the Ministry, the objective is to safeguard young and vulnerable minds who may not fully comprehend the financial risks associated with gambling. According to the Latvian Gaming Business Association, the 18- to 21-year-old age group represents approximately 5% of the total number of players in the country.

The proposed law also includes changes to the requirements for the minimum number of gaming machines in gambling establishments. Currently, up to 20 machines are allowed in gambling halls, but the Ministry of Finance is suggesting an increase to 25.