Parties near agreement on advertising opt-out for betting

Negotiators from the government and the opposition have

Negotiators from the government and the opposition have reportedly reached a preliminary understanding on new gambling regulations, with both sides backing a unified system that would let citizens block betting promotions on digital services.

The proposed framework, which has been under discussion for weeks, centers on a single national register. Once operational, it would give users the ability to exclude themselves from wagering advertisements across websites, social media, and streaming platforms, rather than relying on separate opt-outs for each service provider.

Sources familiar with the talks say the breakthrough came after the two major parties agreed to focus on a consumer-controlled mechanism, sidelining more contentious measures such as a total ban on gambling ads during live sports broadcasts. The register is seen as a compromise that addresses public concern over the prevalence of betting marketing without disrupting the industry's major sponsorship revenue streams.

While the deal is still tentative, it marks

While the deal is still tentative, it marks a significant step forward after months of stalled negotiations. Officials from both camps have signaled that outstanding details—including how the register would be funded and enforced—are expected to be resolved in the coming weeks.

Advocacy groups have cautiously welcomed the move but warned that an opt-in system relies heavily on public awareness. They argue that many vulnerable individuals may not take the necessary steps to register, and have called for additional safeguards beyond the proposed mechanism.

The government is expected to introduce draft legislation later this year, with an eye toward implementation by early next year. If passed, the register would be administered by an independent body, though the specific agency has yet to be named.