The introduction of authorized online casinos in France remains on hold following a considerable backlash from opposition groups.
Trade body Casinos de France (CdF) led the charge, representing the interests of the 200 casino venue operators in the European nation, while there were also significant objections raised by organizations targeting the issue of gambling addiction.
Proposals are on the table for the legalization of online casinos in France, with government sources pointing to the €1billion per year in taxes that could be raised. It has been claimed the authorities could monitor players, creating a safer experience, including guardrails for those who appear to be at risk.
Another argument for the introduction in France is the estimate from the regulator Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ), which outlines three million people in the country played online casino games in 2023, operated in foreign jurisdictions.
As reported by Connexion France, the ANJ states €13.4billion was made in pre-tax profits by legal gambling operators in the country, with $2.7 billion collected in casinos.
France stands alone with Cyprus as the only two European Union countries to prohibit online casino games.
Online games operated by the French lottery
The CdF organization claims the introduction of online casinos would reduce the amounts staked in its venues by 20% to 30%, putting around 30% of them at risk of closure and threatening up to 15,000 jobs, and associated taxes.
Conversely, the CdF is not outright opposed to the introduction of online casinos. It has long campaigned for exclusivity to be granted to existing owners of physical venues to bring casino gaming to the internet.
Legal online gambling in France is facilitated through the government-operated lottery system, which requires users to register online to play various games.
This is geo-restricted with only those in France and Monaco permitted to play, using a computer or mobile phone device.
Lottery revenues in 2023 reached €21billion, with €14.5billion returned to players in winnings.
Image credit: Via Midjourney
