Moldova’s Audiovisual Council Investigates 14 TV Channels Over Illegal Gambling Advertising

Review Finds Problems on 14 Channels

The Audiovisual Council checked television broadcasts between April 9 and April 15. Officials reviewed a total of 40 channels during the process. Most channels passed the review without any issues. However, 14 broadcasters received official notices after regulators found possible rule breaches.

The channels named by the council were Jurnal TV, Cinema 1, 7 TV, TV8, unu1TV, Realitatea TV, Exclusiv TV, PRO TV Chișinău, WE SPORT TV, Next TV, Premiera TV, ONE TV, STAR TV, and TV9. On June 10, the regulator sent notices to the broadcasters. Each channel was given three working days to correct the problems.

Marele Cash Becomes the Main Focus

Most of the concerns involve a television program called Marele Cash. According to the council, 12 channels aired the show at the same time after 10 p.m. Another six channels later showed repeat broadcasts.

The program looked like regular entertainment content. However, regulators believe some promotional segments went beyond simple announcements. Officials said the segments included several National Lottery elements, such as:

• Images of lottery tickets

• The website 7777.md

• Company logos and branding

Because of these features, the council believes the announcements may count as gambling advertising — even if they were presented as program promotions.

Some Broadcasters Face Extra Violations

Beyond the Marele Cash case, regulators found additional concerns. Jurnal TV, WE SPORT TV, Next TV, Premiera TV, ONE TV, and STAR TV allegedly showed gambling advertisements during hours banned by law.

Those findings could lead to further regulatory action. For now, the council is focusing on bringing the channels into compliance. Nevertheless, the case highlights the growing attention on gambling advertising rules.

Regulator Plans New Guidance

Council Chairwoman Liliana Vițu said officials plan to meet with broadcasters and discuss the rules. The regulator also plans to publish guidance materials. These documents will explain the advertising requirements and provide practical examples.

Beyond enforcement, the goal appears simple — helping channels avoid similar mistakes in the future. Hence, the investigation could shape how gambling-related content appears on Moldovan television in the months ahead.