Backlash to iGaming legalization in the country has forced the government to slow down
The French government already announced that it was taking a step back on its timeline for legalizing online casinos, but it has now added that it must gather public input before moving forward. Initially, officials had set a goal to regulate online casinos by 2025. Minister of Budget and Public Accounts Laurent Saint-Martin recently announced that the legislative process would be delayed to allow for additional discussion and development of the proposed framework. The announcement, made during a recent radio interview, highlighted that the government needs more time to refine the legislation.
Next week, a consultation meeting is scheduled between government representatives and key industry stakeholders, including major gambling operators in France. This forum aims to address concerns and gather insights that may help shape the final regulations. For years, organizations like the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) have advocated for the regulation of online casinos in France, arguing that a legal framework could significantly curb the activity of the black market, which reportedly generates approximately €1.5 billion (US$1.6 billion) in annual revenue.
Details of the proposed regulatory model surfaced last week, featuring a notable 55.6% tax rate for online casino operators, which has raised concerns among land-based casino owners who worry about the implications for their own operations. The public feedback phase may help address these concerns and align the interests of the government, online operators, and traditional casino businesses.
By engaging with the industry and the public, France aims to create a regulatory structure that benefits all stakeholders while minimizing risks associated with an unregulated online market. The next steps will likely depend on the input received in these discussions as France takes a cautious approach to establishing its online casino landscape.
