New tobacco excise taxes and strict rules for gambling affiliates in Bulgaria

Increase in excise duties on tobacco products

At the second reading, the parliament adopted amendments to the state budget, which provide for a phased increase in excise duty rates for smoking tobacco. The schedule is as follows:

• From August 1, 2026: 130 euros per kilogram
• From March 1, 2027: 138 euros per kilogram
• From January 1, 2028: 146 euros per kilogram

The purpose of these changes is to harmonize Bulgarian legislation with European requirements.

Regulation of gambling advertising and affiliate marketing

The new provisions in the Gambling Act set clear frameworks for affiliate operators. It is now mandatory for foreign entities promoting gambling games to have:

• An authorized representative with an address in Bulgaria
• Representative authority to conclude contracts
• A valid license for their activities

The law explicitly prohibits the advertising and promotion of gambling operators that do not hold a license issued in the country. It is important to note that the proposal for a complete ban on gambling advertising in media and transport, introduced by PP, was not adopted.