Gambling in Greece Becomes an ‘Epidemic,’ Reaching New Records in 2024
Gambling in Greece has reached epidemic proportions, with expenditures rising alarmingly each year. In 2023, Greeks spent €36 billion on bets, and projections for 2024 indicate even higher figures. The Total Gaming Revenue (TGR) for the first half of 2024 was €21.2 billion, according to the Hellenic Gaming Commission (EEEP).
This surge encompasses various forms of gambling:
• Online platforms: €15.34 billion
• OPAP games (sports betting): €5.019 billion
• Casinos: €980 million
• Lotteries: €151.6 million
• Horse racing: €14.19 million
Consequently, the Greek state collected €476 million in taxes during this period.
Alarmingly, a significant portion of gamblers are minors. EEEP data indicates that Greek teenagers have the highest rates of gambling participation in the EU. Online betting is particularly popular, likely due to the ease of access for underage individuals, despite the legal gambling age being 21.
The upward trend in gambling expenditures is evident:
• 2019: €15.9 billion
• 2021: €22.6 billion
• 2022: €29 billion
• 2023: €36 billion
This increase is partly attributed to the growth of online gambling during the COVID-19 pandemic, which introduced many Greeks to online betting platforms.
Illegal gambling also poses a significant issue, with an estimated €1.7 billion spent on unauthorized betting in 2023. Notably, approximately 10% of participants in illegal gambling are minors, underscoring the challenges in enforcing age restrictions and the pervasive nature of gambling in Greek society.
