Gennadiy Novikov Appointed Head of “PlayCity”: A New Era of Gambling Regulation
Who is Gennadiy Novikov
Former deputy head of the now-defunct Commission for the Regulation of Gambling and Lotteries (CRGL), Gennadiy Novikov, has been appointed as the head of the new state agency “PlayCity”. The Cabinet of Ministers has already approved the decision. The new agency replaces CRGL and will oversee gambling market reform.
Novikov is an experienced lawyer. While at CRGL, he streamlined the process of blocking illegal online casinos. In 2024, his initiatives led to the blocking of 4,500 illegal websites and apps. He also oversaw inspections of gambling operators, which resulted in nearly UAH 18 million in fines.
What “PlayCity” Will Do
The state agency “PlayCity” is subordinate to Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov and operates under the coordination of the Ministry of Digital Transformation. It will shape and implement state policy in the field of gambling and lotteries.
Key objectives of the new agency:
- Digitalization of licensing — simplifying and automating the licensing process;
- Online monitoring system — tracking financial flows and ensuring transparency of budget contributions;
- Combating illegal casinos — strengthening oversight and blocking illegal operators;
- Register of problem gamblers — updating and simplifying the process of self-exclusion from gambling.
Legislative Changes
In December 2024, the Verkhovna Rada passed a law tightening control over gambling. The bill was signed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Main provisions of the law:
- liquidation of CRGL;
- ban on gambling advertising (except during nighttime broadcasting, in 21+ press, and on specialized online platforms);
- restrictions on promotional SMS and calls;
- enhanced financial oversight.
Financial Impact
Following the gambling market reforms, Ukraine received almost UAH 5.5 billion in taxes from legal operators in just the first three months of 2025. This is 143 times more than in 2022.