Balkan Gaming Federation's First President—What's Next for 2027?

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-10-09

The Balkan Gaming Federation (BGF) has just taken its first big step. Six months after industry associations from across the Balkans decided to join forces, the group now has a governing structure in place. This is a major milestone for a region that's been working hard to make its voice heard in the global gaming industry. At a meeting in Bucharest on September 30, delegates elected Dragan Skrbić, who leads Serbia's AGOS association, as the federation's first President. That's a big deal. It means the BGF is moving from ideas to action. ### Why This Matters If you're in the gaming industry—whether you run a casino, develop software, or regulate the sector—you know how important it is to have a unified voice. The Balkans have a growing gaming market, but until now, there wasn't a single group representing the whole region. The BGF changes that. "This is about making sure the Balkans aren't just seen as a small player," says Skrbić. "We have a lot to offer, and we want to work with our European partners to shape the future of gaming." ### What's on the Agenda? The federation has a lot on its plate. First, it's preparing a series of industry initiatives. These will focus on things like responsible gaming, technological innovation, and cross-border cooperation. The goal is to create a more stable and attractive environment for operators and players alike. Second, the BGF is expanding its cooperation with European stakeholders. That means talking to groups like the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) and other regulators. By working together, they can share best practices and avoid regulatory clashes. Third, the BGF will strengthen coordination on regulatory matters. Each country in the Balkans has its own rules, which can be a headache for companies operating across borders. The federation wants to help harmonize those rules where possible, making it easier to do business. ### Looking Ahead to 2027 The BGF has set its sights on 2027. By then, it hopes to have a fully functioning framework that supports its members and promotes the region as a gaming hub. That's ambitious, but the momentum is there. - **Membership growth:** The BGF plans to bring in more associations from across the Balkans. - **Policy influence:** It aims to have a say in EU-level discussions about gaming regulation. - **Industry events:** Expect to see more conferences and networking opportunities. ### The Bottom Line The Balkan Gaming Federation is no longer just an idea. With leadership in place and a clear plan, it's ready to make waves. For anyone involved in gaming—especially in Europe—this is something to watch. The decisions made now could shape the industry for years to come. So, what does this mean for you? If you're an operator, you might see more consistent regulations. If you're a player, you could benefit from better protections. And if you're just interested in the business of gaming, the BGF is a story worth following. Stay tuned.