Cypriots continue to rank among Europe’s most active gamblers, with new figures confirming that betting remains a powerful economic force on the island. According to the National Betting Authority (NBA), the betting sector generated €312.48 million in gross revenues during the third quarter of 2025, maintaining what the regulator describes as a “consistently high economic footprint”.

The results, covering July to September 2025, represent a 7% increase compared with Q3 2024 and a 20% rise compared with the same period in 2023, highlighting the steady expansion of the betting market in Cyprus.

Of the total gross revenues, €235.67 million came from online Class B operators, while €76.81 million was generated by land-based Class A betting.

Land-based betting revenues declined by 1% year-on-year, although they remained 7% higher than in 2023. In contrast, online betting revenues rose by 10% compared with 2024 and by 25% compared with 2023, confirming the ongoing shift of Cypriot players toward digital platforms.

The NBA said the figures “confirm the strong momentum of the betting sector”.

Total player winnings reached €277.45 million in Q3 2025, marking a 9% annual increase and a 20% rise compared with 2023. The largest share — €214.29 million — went to online betting players.

At the same time, the data underlines the continued outflow of money to international betting companies, particularly those operating online.

Despite higher revenues, betting contributions paid to the state fell by 5%, amounting to €35.03 million.

• Class A contributions: €13.65 million (down 1%)

• Class B contributions: €21.38 million (down 8%)

The decline comes despite strong overall market growth.

The number of licensed Class A betting premises fell by 2%, with 465 shops operating across Cyprus. Distribution remains highest in Nicosia (165) and Limassol (133), followed by Larnaca (83), Paphos (48) and Famagusta (36).

Employment in licensed betting shops also dropped by 2%, with 1,495 employees recorded. However, license cancellations and withdrawals decreased by 28%, suggesting improved regulatory stability.

Efforts to block illegal gambling platforms intensified during the quarter. By the end of Q3 2025, the NBA’s blacklist included 21,825 illegal betting websites, with 192 new sites added, marking a 5% increase year-on-year.

The authority reiterated that tackling illegal betting remains a top priority to protect consumers and the regulated market.