The opposition feels that gambling regulations in Turkey are scattered in various laws, which has created a problem in ensuring that regulations are enforced uniformly. The problem has been compounded by the fact that gambling is now just a button press away from anyone with a smartphone.
A Push for One Rulebook and One Regulator
In presenting their plan, Murat Emir, a member of the Republican People’s Party, together with Ozan Bingöl, a member of Parliament, proposed a single system approach. According to it, a single gambling law applies universally, with a single regulator overseeing gambling in Turkey. The plan seeks to create a Gambling Regulation and Supervision Authority, which replaces a hodgepodge of gambling regulations currently spread out in several institutions.
The opposition argues that gambling regulations in Turkey have failed to advance with technology. Critics say it’s difficult to tell what is legal and what is illegal, as users can easily move between the two with minimal hiccups using their smartphones.
State Monopolies under Scrutiny
A second pressure point is the state’s own role in gambling. The CHP has questioned the prominence of state-backed brands IDDAA and Milli Piyango, arguing that their visibility has helped normalize gambling while failing to reduce illegal activity.
The opposition has also been pushing for a review of how gambling is run in Turkey, with a particular focus on state monopolies in gambling, which include IDDAA and Milli Piyango. Additionally, Emir charged that the state was sending conflicting messages by making money from legal gambling while promising to combat illegal betting.
In Turkey, where authorities continue to fight unlicensed online activity, gambling is strictly restricted, and the state retains control over legal betting and lotteries.
“Follow the Money” through MASAK
The plan also reflects a strong emphasis on financial enforcement. In the CHP’s view, the authorities need to be granted stronger powers and a stronger role for MASAK, particularly with regard to the flow of money that supports the network of illegal betting. That includes money laundering and the use of so-called “rented” bank accounts.
The key argument is that blocking sites and making arrests does not stop illegal gambling if the payment channels stay open.
What the Market Should Watch Next
The CHP’s plan reflects a view that gambling is a central topic in the governance of Turkey, rather than a peripheral topic in Turkish society. Turkey has already been ratcheting up its stance against illegal betting under President Erdoğan, and a parliamentary initiative that focuses on a single regulator and financial enforcement adds to the trend.
Observing this situation, greater scrutiny of the financial system and political pressure on any model seen as enabling migration from legal channels into unlicensed markets can be expected in the near future.
