Safer gambling action plans are criticized and six of them are rejected by ANJ

France’s gambling regulator, the Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ), has reported that there has been “little significant progress” in the implementation of operator action plans to address problem gambling.

As a result, ANJ has rejected six action plans presented by five casinos and one gaming club. ANJ reviewed the plans of 235 racetracks, 203 casinos, and 7 gaming clubs.

All operators in France are required by law, under a legal order imposed on October 2, 2019, to submit action plans that outline measures to combat fraud, money laundering, terrorist financing, and promote safer gambling initiatives.

Casinos

Although most of the action plans presented by casinos and gaming clubs were approved by ANJ, the regulator emphasized the requirements for 2022. These requirements entail a significant improvement in the implementation of safer gambling initiatives, such as better monitoring tools, internal organization, staff training, and providing adequate information on safer gambling to customers.

ANJ further reported that there were only a few noteworthy advances or innovative measures taken in the action plans submitted by casinos and gaming clubs.

To address this issue, ANJ is preparing a practical guide for casinos that will outline how to identify and assist individuals who may be struggling with gambling addiction.

Racing action plans

ANJ also commented on the action plans submitted by the National Federation of Horse Racing, which encompasses 235 racing companies and 10 regional federations in France. According to ANJ, the plans were largely similar to those submitted in 2022, and emphasized the need for these racing entities to maintain a clear distinction between areas designated for families and those dedicated to betting.

Earlier this month, ANJ reviewed the money laundering action plans and reported that “significant progress” had been made.

In February, ANJ rejected an advertising action plan proposed by the French national lottery operator, Française des Jeux (FDJ). ANJ criticized the plan for being insufficient and failing to take into account the concerns raised in 2022 regarding gambling marketing in France.