New Law on Games Sparks Economic Concerns in Macedonia
A recently enacted law concerning games in Macedonia is generating significant economic anxieties, according to the Association of Sports Promoters of Macedonia (ASSOM). The legislation, implemented on June 4, 2026, at 14:11, has been criticized for its potential to trigger a widespread economic collapse. Vasko Ilievski, president of ASSOM, speaking on TV 24’s Studio 10, warned of a chain reaction of negative consequences.
The new law introduces a direct tax on club formation, effectively dismantling the legal framework surrounding the industry. This has resulted in an estimated 10,000 job losses and a state financial loss of 350 million euros. Ilievski expressed concerns about the potential for bankruptcy among competitors and a surge in illegal economic activity – what he termed an “explosion of the black economy.” He specifically highlighted the risk of physical displacement within urban centers as a critical issue.
The legislation represents a significant departure from standard regulatory practices, and ASSOM maintains that it will have severe and destabilizing effects on the Macedonian sports and entertainment sector. Further analysis of the law’s impact is expected in the coming weeks.
Topics: #new #law #games
