French Government Postpones Online Casino Legislation, Schedules Consultation with Industry Operators
The French Government has postponed its anticipated online casino regulation, initially slated for 2025, as it seeks additional time to refine the proposed legislation. According to Gambling Insider, a public consultation with key gambling operators will take place next week to discuss the direction of the new regulatory framework.
Announcement and Delays in Online Casino Regulation
Just one week after the government’s announcement of plans to regulate online casinos by 2025, Budget Minister Laurent Saint-Martin disclosed the postponement on Radio J, explaining that further legislative work is necessary.
The consultation scheduled for next week signals an effort to engage with industry stakeholders, including leading local operators, as the government reevaluates the details of its regulatory approach.
Background and Concerns in the French Market
The push for regulation has grown in recent years, with calls from the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) for structured oversight following findings that black-market gaming in France generates up to €1.5 billion in annual revenue.
Despite this momentum, details of the proposed regulation, including a potential 55.6% tax rate, have sparked concerns among land-based casinos that fear the impact of high taxation on their operations.
Industry Collaboration as the Government Refines its Approach
The consultation meeting will provide an opportunity for France’s government to gather insights from industry representatives, balancing the need for a regulated market with the interests of existing gambling operators.
The decision to delay the legislation indicates a willingness to consider these viewpoints as France shapes its future online casino landscape.