EGBA Urges France to Reconsider Online Casino Ban by End of 2023

The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) is pushing for a pivotal change in France’s gambling regulations as 2023 concludes.

A recent study highlights the alarming growth of France’s online gambling black market, urging immediate action.

Envision a regulated, safe, and thriving online casino market in France, free from the risks of unregulated platforms.

Discover EGBA’s urgent plea for France to lift its online casino ban, aimed at curbing the expanding black market and enhancing player safety.

EGBA’s Critical Stance on France’s Gambling Landscape

The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) has raised serious concerns about France’s national gambling authority, l’Autorité Nationale des Jeux. A recent study commissioned by the authority and conducted by PwC reveals the alarming size of France’s black market for online gambling. The study estimates the black market’s gross gaming revenue (GGR) to be a staggering €1.5 billion annually, nearly half of France’s regulated online gambling revenue.

France’s Black Market Landscape: The Online Casino Ban and Its Impact

Despite being a significant player in the European gambling market, France stands as one of only two EU countries that enforce a ban on online casino games. This prohibition has inadvertently fueled a substantial and risky black market, lacking in regulatory oversight and safe gambling measures. The EGBA contends that the online casino games ban is a key contributor to the black market’s growth.

Key Findings from PwC’s Study: Scope and Impact

PwC’s study indicates that online casino games, including slots, contribute to 50% of the black market’s website traffic in France. Around 3 million French players engage with these platforms at least once a month, and shockingly, high-risk players account for 79% of the GGR generated in this illicit sector.

The Human Cost: Player Vulnerability in the Black Market

The study underscores the vulnerability of French players on black market websites. With no legal recourse and lacking minimum safeguards such as self-exclusion, EGBA is particularly alarmed by the risks these players face on unregulated platforms.

EGBA’s Call to Action: Reevaluating France’s Ban

In response to these findings, EGBA urges French authorities to reassess the existing ban on online casino games. Drawing parallels with the regulation of online sports betting, EGBA recommends establishing a safe and regulated environment for online casino players through a multi-licensing model.

Multi-Licensing Model: A Proposed Solution

EGBA suggests a regulatory framework based on a multi-licensing model, allowing multiple operators to obtain business-to-customer licenses. This approach has proven effective in other markets for reducing black market presence in online gambling and providing a regulated alternative.

Insights from Maarten Haijer, Secretary-General of EGBA

Maarten Haijer stresses the urgency of addressing the issue, stating, “The scale of France’s online black market is concerning. France’s prohibition of online casinos significantly contributes to the problem.” He advocates that regulating online casino games through a multi-licensing model would better protect consumers, regain control over the online gambling market, and secure vital tax revenues.

Conclusion: The Pressing Need for Regulatory Reform in France

As EGBA highlights the significant black market in France, it underscores the urgency for regulatory reform. Lifting the ban on online casino games is not just a strategic move for consumer protection but also crucial for reclaiming control over a lucrative online gambling market. By adopting a multi-licensing model, France can create a safer gambling environment, reduce the black market’s influence, and harness the full potential of its online gambling sector.