Romanian gambling regulator wants less bureaucracy for operators

What excites you most about your new position as president of the National Gambling Office and what does your experience at Rombet allow you to bring to this new role?
 
My new role as President of the National Gambling Office encourages and inspires me to move our industry forward. ONJN, as the national regulator, monitoring and controlling authority, is not only the most powerful institution but also the one with greatest responsibility for the gambling industry. I think we can all agree that a a lot of aspects should be changed in our industry, not just in Romania but all over the world. I strongly believe a change of mindset is required – an image and mentality makeover-. My vast experience in the industry and the meetings held with casino operators and regulators from other EU countries, are the foundations upon which we build a professional, transparent and respected gambling industry.
 
What would you say were the greatest accomplishments of Odeta Nestor? How do you intend to build on the progress made by your predecessor and improve the weaker areas?

We have a great team of professionals doing a fantastic job at the ONJN.

After a few years of existence, the ONJN has been able to build a fair, regulated market that serves as example of best practices for other European gambling jurisdictions.
 
Every manager has its own vision and leadership style, but it’s important we all work together to ensure law is upheld and enforced by both operators and players alike. It’s vital that we provide a safe space of transparency and integrity for Romanian players.
 
What changes can the global gaming industry expect to see from Romania under your leadership? What are the priorities? Are you planning on issuing more licenses for operators and industry service providers in the near future?
 
I’m confident Romania will see more international operators applying for online licenses in the future. However, we cannot make a prediction on what the exact number of licensees will be now. As for our relationship with gambling operators, I want less bureaucracy and simpler procedures – always subject to effective and strict controls-.
 
Where do you see the Romanian gambling industry in 12 months time? Will we see greater liberalization?
 
The growth and technological innovation we’re seeing is amazing. The wind of change is blowing in the gambling industry as a result of a need for efficiency and diversification. Digital platforms offer infinite possibilities for customization, and changes happen instantly. At the NGO, we’re committed to exploring these new directions of development, and will do our best to keep the regulations up-to-date and develop them in the light of requirements. In addition to this, we will continue to control and monitor activity, whilst paying special attention to problem gambling.

All those who understand the importance of responsible gambling and are taking steps in this direction will have our full support.