French Government to Host Public Consultation After Online Casino Legislation Delay

A public consultation meeting between the French Government and local gambling operators is scheduled for next week, amid reports that the anticipated online casino legislation has been delayed.

Just a week after the government announced plans to regulate its online casino sector by 2025, Minister of Budget and Public Accounts, Laurent Saint-Martin, revealed on Radio J that further work is needed on the proposed legislation. This postponement has been widely reported in French media, signaling a significant shift in the government's approach.

The upcoming consultation will bring together key industry stakeholders, including prominent local operators, indicating a proactive effort to gather insights before finalizing the regulations.

The push for online casino regulation in France has been gaining momentum, especially following a December 2023 appeal from the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) to address the thriving black market, which reportedly generates up to €1.5 billion ($1.6 billion) annually.

Last week, details of the proposed regulatory framework emerged, highlighting a suggested tax rate of 55.6%. However, land-based casinos have voiced concerns regarding this proposal, suggesting potential pushback from established operators.

In an effort to refine its strategy, the French Government is clearly prioritizing the perspectives of its key gambling operators and tax contributors as it navigates this complex regulatory landscape.