CNA Bars Celebrities Ads, Tightens Gambling Rules in Romania

Romania’s media regulator, CNA, has rolled out sweeping changes targeting gambling, supplements, and pseudo‑scientific content.

Public figures will no longer be allowed in gambling ads across all platforms. Supplements now face stricter regulation. Media must reject unproven health claims.

These changes aim to protect minors and improve media transparency. As a result, content will become more reliable and child‑safe.

Over the next 90 days, broadcasters and platforms must comply—or face penalties up to €40,000. Stay ahead—adapt quickly to the new rules.

Romania’s CNA Cracks Down: Stars Out, Supplements Tamed, Pseudoscience Ban Enforced

3 Key Points

• No Celebrities in Gambling Ads: Public figures from any domain are now prohibited in such adverts.
• Stricter Rules for Supplements & Pseudoscience: Ads must meet evidence-based standards and follow health claim rules.
• Audience Protection Measures: New laws target content harmful to minors; major platforms must comply.

Romania’s National Audiovisual Council (CNA) has approved major amendments to its Audiovisual Code, updating regulations on gambling commercials, supplement marketing, and combating pseudoscience. These changes reflect mounting public concern about irresponsible advertising and its influence, particularly on younger viewers.

Public Figures Removed from Gambling Ads

Effective from 90 days post-publication, any content featuring public figures in gambling ads will be banned. This applies to TV, radio, and online campaigns. Figures from sports, science, social media, or schools can no longer lend their credibility to betting brands. CNA member Valentin Jucan emphasized these ads significantly influence minors by transferring fame and trust to gambling services.

This move aligns with CNA’s ongoing efforts since early 2023 to control gambling normalisation in media. The Council previously supported a comprehensive blackout on such advertising. Now, the focus is sharpened: no familiar faces—no glamour.

Tighter Rules for Supplements & Anti‑Pseudoscience Measures

In tandem, the Code expands to regulate food supplements and curative claims. Only data approved by health authorities can feature in ads. The earlier requirement that minors not appear in supplement ads remains intact. Additionally, publishers must reject overt pseudoscientific or misleading health claims. This effort builds on CNA’s partnership with the Education Ministry to counter false content in media.

Overall, these rules strengthen consumer protection and restore confidence in media advertising.

Child Protection & Enforcement

The amendments specifically safeguard minors. Any gambling or supplement ad must comply with child protection policies—even within on-demand content.

In enforcement terms, CNA can:

• Require removal of infringing ads from platforms like YouTube or Facebook,
• Issue legal compliance orders to broadcasters,
• Impose fines up to 200,000 lei (~€40,000).

Initially, violators receive a legal compliance request. If unresolved, CNA will sanction the broadcaster. For uncooperative online platforms, CNA can demand content removal.

Industry Response & Debate

Gambling operators like Winbet and organizations such as the Romanian Football Federation (FRF) have criticized the changes. The FRF argued that removing sports personalities from responsible gambling campaigns undermines awareness initiatives. Likewise, BRAT and casino associations raised concerns. However, CNA representatives—citing unanimous agreement—rejected all amendment proposals.

Nevertheless, critics argue the definitions of “public figure” and “pull factor” need clarity, to avoid inconsistency and overreach.

Alignment With EU & Global Standards

Romania’s move reflects a broader EU trend of tightening gambling advertising rules. Similar bans on celebrity endorsements and watershed restrictions were adopted in countries including Italy, Spain, and the UK.

Concerted efforts against misleading supplement advertising also align with EU Regulation on nutrition and health claims. The goal: ensure only scientifically validated claims reach consumers. This is particularly important in an era of COVID‑19 misinformation and health scams.

What’s Next?

• Implementation Period: The new Code takes effect within three months.
• Platform Compliance: CN A can demand content removal from global platforms.
• Legal Clarity: The industry seeks clearer definitions to navigate restrictions.
• Continuing Evolution: CNA will likely increase protections across substance use, gambling, and pseudoscience.

Romania’s CNA has drawn a firm line: no celebrities in gambling ads, stricter supplement claims oversight, and decisive action against false health messaging. These reforms bolster media transparency and shield minors from harmful influences.

The stakes are clear—broadcasters, platforms, and advertisers must act fast. With up to €40k in fines and content removal orders pending, compliance is not optional. Ultimately, the new Code strengthens public trust, aligns Romania with EU standards, and fosters a healthier information environment.

Romania has reset the rules: responsible media now starts with responsibility.

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