Tunisian MPs Table Draft Law to Sharply Tighten Controls on Online and Land-Based Gambling

A bloc of 23 members of Tunisia’s parliament has put forward a draft law designed to impose far stricter controls on gambling and betting activities, with a strong emphasis on the online environment, as the country looks to rein in illegal platforms and shield vulnerable segments of society.

The proposal, formally submitted on 19 January 2026, would amend Decree-Law No. 74-20 of 1974, the legislation that currently regulates fairs, gaming rooms and lotteries. The MPs behind the initiative contend that the existing legal framework is no longer fit for purpose, arguing that it fails to address the rapid expansion of digital gambling and falls short of modern international regulatory practices.

Under the draft, the legal definition of gambling would be significantly broadened to encompass any activity in which chance plays a decisive role, whether it takes place in physical locations or through digital channels. This would apply regardless of whether potential winnings are monetary, material or provided in kind, thereby explicitly bringing websites, mobile applications and other online tools within the scope of gambling regulation.

The text proposes that the organisation, operation or promotion of gambling — both traditional and online — would be generally banned, save for a narrow set of exceptions subject to stringent state authorisation. Lawmakers say the overarching objectives are to combat addiction, safeguard minors and limit the social and economic damage associated with gambling.

Online gambling conducted outside authorised frameworks would be expressly criminalised.

Penalties would extend beyond operators to include players, financiers and promoters. In addition, internet service providers and electronic payment companies would be obliged to block and prevent access to unauthorised gambling services.

The MPs draw attention to the increasing activity of offshore betting platforms targeting Tunisian users, noting that transactions are frequently routed through e-wallets or informal payment methods. Such practices, they argue, allow funds to avoid taxation and heighten the risk of money laundering. The proposal also covers online “competitions,” digital casino-style games and mobile applications that convert virtual points or rewards into real-world value, stipulating that any such gains would be considered illegal if generated without state approval.

The draft law envisages a tougher sanctions regime, including heavy fines, seizure of illicit profits and the possibility of criminal prosecution. Authorities would be granted expanded powers to order website blocking, freeze or suspend accounts and remove gambling-related content. Digital service providers could also be compelled to assist in identifying individuals and networks behind unlawful operations.

Backers of the legislation say it is intended to shift enforcement from an ad hoc, reactive model toward continuous oversight, with greater emphasis on prevention, tracking financial flows and protecting young people. The proposal will now move to parliamentary debate, where legislators are expected to consider the balance between stricter controls, personal freedoms and the long-term structure of gambling regulation in Tunisia.

By fLEXI tEAM