Balkan Gaming Federation Just Elected Its First President—Here's What Happens Next

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-10-09

### A New Era for Balkan Gaming Six months ago, gaming associations from across the Balkans decided to join forces. They created the Balkan Gaming Federation (BGF). Now, that alliance has taken its first real step: electing a leadership team and setting a clear roadmap for 2027. It's a big deal for the region's gaming industry. For the first time, countries that often compete for tourism and investment are coordinating on regulation, responsible gaming, and market growth. And they're doing it together. ### The Man at the Helm At a meeting in Bucharest on September 30, delegates elected Dragan Skrbić as the federation's first President. Skrbić is the president of AGOS, Serbia's gaming association. He's known for his pragmatic approach and deep knowledge of the Balkan market. "We're not just building an organization," Skrbić said after his election. "We're building a voice for an industry that employs thousands and entertains millions." His first task? Getting all member countries on the same page about what the BGF should prioritize. ### What's on the 2027 Agenda? The BGF has mapped out three main goals: - **Harmonize regulations** across member states to reduce red tape for operators. - **Promote responsible gaming** with shared standards and public awareness campaigns. - **Expand cooperation** with European stakeholders, including the EU, to align Balkan gaming with broader continental rules. These aren't small tasks. The Balkans have a patchwork of gaming laws—some countries embrace online casinos, others restrict them heavily. The BGF wants to find common ground without stepping on national sovereignty. ### Why This Matters for Players and Operators If you're an operator, a unified Balkan market could mean fewer headaches when expanding. Instead of learning a dozen different regulatory frameworks, you might see more consistency. For players, the benefits are less direct but still real. Harmonized rules often lead to better consumer protections, fairer games, and clearer dispute resolution. And for the region as a whole? A coordinated approach could attract more investment and make the Balkans a more attractive destination for gaming tourism. ### The Road Ahead The BGF still has a lot of work to do. It needs to hire staff, set up committees, and start actual negotiations with governments. But the election of Skrbić and the 2027 plan show that the federation is serious. As one delegate put it, "We're not just talking anymore. We're building something that will last." For an industry that's often fragmented, that's a refreshing change. *This article was written by Dr. Annelies De Vos, Senior Analyst of Port Policy and Maritime Strategy. She covers gaming and regulatory affairs across Europe.*