Direct state revenue from the Cyprus Gaming and Casino Supervision Authority reached €41 million, while the Authority’s total direct contribution for 2018-2025 stood at €166.4 million, its President Pieris Chourides said on Tuesday.

Presenting the Authority’s annual report for 2024-2025, Chourides said the gaming sector recorded significant growth during the two-year period, mainly due to the operation and stabilisation of the Integrated Casino Resort in Limassol, which opened in 2023.

He said international players continued to account for a larger share of participation and activity than Cypriot players.

Chourides also said Cyprus was the first European country to operate this type of integrated casino resort. Asked about similar resorts operating in the Turkish-occupied areas, he said these were illegal, but noted that the Authority cannot stop citizens from going there to gamble. He added that important work is being carried out in the field of prevention.

The Authority also reported a rise in gaming-related licences, from 222 in 2024 to 448 in 2025, covering casino employees, gaming equipment, casino management staff and gaming machine suppliers.

Executive Director Charis Tsangarides said the Authority focused in 2024-2025 on stronger supervision, player protection, responsible gaming policies, anti-money laundering measures and closer international cooperation.

He also referred to the new METRON funding programme, which aims to support actions to prevent problem gambling, as well as to the national awareness campaign “Take Control”, which promotes personal responsibility, limits and early access to support services.

Source: CNA(ΚΥΠΕ)