France will lift the ban on online casinos in the country in 2025. The government seems to be quite serious about their decision, trying to improve the state finances.
Legalizing Online Casinos in France: What Is Known so far?
France has probably the most severe online gambling policies in the world. The National Gambling Authority (ANJ) may authorize online gambling and sports betting activities like those offered at GGBET. The only exceptions have been made for racing and the game of poker. In addition, the ANJ implements responsible gambling policies to help players deal with gambling addiction. The range of their responsibilities will likely increase next year.
The country’s decision to legalize online casinos has been in the air for a while. The Ministry of Economy and Finance drew attention to the obvious economic benefits coming from online gambling. As a result, the National Assembly finally proposed to lift the ban on online casinos in 2025. The proposal will undergo consultations before the final approval. The document suggests legalizing online casino games such as slots, blackjack, scratch cards, and roulette.
Reasons behind Online Casino Legalization
Bringing online casinos into the legal field promises massive tax income within the first year. Casino operators will pay a 55.6% tax on their annual gaming revenue if the proposal passes. This can be a significant contribution to France’s annual budget.
Banning online casinos makes gamblers look for illegal gambling sites. As a result, large finances are circulating in the gambling industry without the government’s control. According to the ANJ’s research study, the gross revenue from illegal gambling resources reached €748 million or €1.5 billion. According to IMARC Group, the online gambling market in France has the potential to hit a massive $12 billion in annual revenue by the end of 2030. These finances could cover the country’s expenses in health, education, and other sectors.
In this context, legalizing and regulating online casinos seem to make more sense. The ANJ has initiated the reforms that would make illegal resources comply with the national law. Here are the main benefits to pursue by France:
- High competition: Online casino operators will get an excellent opportunity to operate in one of the most significant markets in Europe. Despite high taxes, they can find the right balance between revenue and compliance with the law.
- Economic growth: The high tax revenue will contribute to the national economy. The country will get more finances for state security and other social benefits.
- Impact on traditional casino venues: Traditional casinos fear losing their customers. They are asking the government to allow only traditional casino venues to have online gambling sites within 3 years after legalization. This will help them gain certain benefits over their experienced online rivals. Thus, they will be able to adjust to the new market and audience. In the end, this can be a win-win situation for all parties.
The changes to the law will most likely be made. However, the government will have to take more than a few challenges like passing the new reform through the government and enforcing strict regulations. The consultations will involve thorough evaluations of the economic potential. They will also cover the potential social risks related to online gambling activities. The lack of regulatory frameworks will cause France to lose tax income and control over online gambling activities.
Is Legalizing Online Casinos a New Trend?
France doesn’t seem to be the only country considering the legislation of online casinos. The UK, Sweden, and Netherlands have rechecked their gambling laws to gain economic benefits. They implemented legal frameworks for online gambling, leading to higher taxes and lower illegal gambling rates. In the United States, online gambling law varies from one state to another. The country still has a chance to benefit from partial revenues coming from this entertainment industry. Let’s see when and what the final decision about online casinos in France will be!
