The upcoming SBC Summit Tbilisi 2026 is set to significantly elevate its role in shaping the future of gaming regulation, as organisers announce a major expansion of the SBC Regulators Forum. Scheduled for July 15–16, 2026, the forum will now operate at twice the scale of previous editions, reflecting the growing urgency for coordinated regulatory action across Central and Eastern Europe (CEE), the Balkans, and Central Asia.
Organised by SBC in partnership with SMH, the expanded forum aims to create a more robust platform for dialogue among regulatory authorities, policymakers, and industry stakeholders. This development comes at a critical time when the gaming industry is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by technological advancements and evolving legislative frameworks.
A Larger Platform for Regulatory Dialogue
The 2026 edition of the forum will bring together at least twice the number of regulatory bodies compared to previous years, making it one of the most comprehensive gatherings of its kind in the region. With an expected attendance of around 2,500 delegates and more than 60 expert speakers, the event is poised to facilitate meaningful discussions that go beyond traditional compliance topics.
By increasing participation, the forum aims to foster stronger connections between jurisdictions, enabling regulators to share insights, align strategies, and address cross-border challenges more effectively. This collaborative approach is particularly important in regions where regulatory landscapes vary significantly but are increasingly interconnected.
Focus on Real-World Challenges
Unlike earlier editions that primarily focused on policy discussions, the 2026 forum is designed to address practical, on-the-ground challenges faced by regulators and industry players. The agenda has been carefully curated to emphasize actionable solutions, with a strong focus on combating illegal activities within the gaming sector.
One of the key topics will be the rising sophistication of the black market. As illegal operators continue to leverage advanced digital tools, the forum will explore how collaboration between technology companies, financial institutions, and regulators can help disrupt these illicit networks. The discussions will highlight the role of “Big Tech” in identifying and blocking illegal platforms, as well as the importance of financial monitoring in cutting off revenue streams for unregulated operators.
Hands-On Workshops and Strategic Frameworks
A standout feature of the expanded forum is its emphasis on interactive learning. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in hands-on workshops aimed at developing a “National Disruption Playbook.” This framework is intended to provide regulators with practical tools and strategies to detect, monitor, and dismantle illegal gaming operations.
The workshops will encourage multi-agency collaboration, bringing together law enforcement, regulatory bodies, and private sector representatives to simulate real-world scenarios. By working through these exercises, participants can gain valuable insights into effective enforcement techniques and improve their readiness to tackle complex challenges.
Strengthening Market Integrity Through Data Sharing
Another major focus area for the forum will be the enhancement of market integrity through improved data-sharing mechanisms. As fraud and financial crime become increasingly sophisticated, the need for seamless information exchange between stakeholders has never been greater.
Sessions dedicated to this topic will explore how regulators and industry operators can collaborate more effectively to detect suspicious activities and prevent fraud. The discussions will also examine best practices for data governance, ensuring that information sharing is conducted in a secure and compliant manner.
By promoting transparency and cooperation, the forum aims to build a more resilient gaming ecosystem that can withstand emerging threats.
Looking Ahead: Future of Gaming Regulation
In addition to addressing current challenges, the SBC Regulators Forum 2026 will also provide a forward-looking perspective on the future of gaming regulation. A dedicated segment of the programme will focus on emerging trends and potential regulatory developments, offering insights into how the industry may evolve in the coming years.
Topics such as digital transformation, regulatory harmonisation, and the impact of new technologies will be explored from the regulators’ point of view. This forward-thinking approach ensures that participants are not only prepared for present challenges but are also equipped to navigate future changes.
A Critical Moment for the Industry
The expansion of the SBC Regulators Forum underscores the importance of collaboration in an increasingly complex regulatory environment. As the gaming industry continues to grow and evolve, the need for coordinated action among stakeholders becomes more pressing.
By doubling its scale and focusing on practical solutions, SBC Summit Tbilisi 2026 is positioning itself as a key platform for driving meaningful change. The forum’s emphasis on collaboration, innovation, and actionable strategies highlights its role in shaping a more transparent and sustainable future for the gaming sector.
With a strong lineup of participants and a forward-looking agenda, the event is expected to play a pivotal role in advancing regulatory standards and fostering a more connected global gaming community.
