In December the Czech Republic's Ministry of Finance granted licences to operate internet gambling to five domestic companies, Sazka, Fortuna, Chance, Synot Tip and Tipsport.
Those licences came into force yesterday. All five operators were required to have a network of land-based outlets where customers need to register. The companies will be subject to regulation under the Gaming Act and will pay administrative fees, state supervision fees and part of their proceeds will be used for good causes.
The server where the betting takes place must be located in the Czech Republic, with the software used to be subject to certification. The operators are also obliged to allow state access to the system.
