France Moves Towards iGaming Legalisation by 2025

Objectives and Key Points of the Document

The proposed strategy seeks to stop the growth of illegal digital gambling in France. According to ANJ, the country’s regulatory authority, the shadow gaming sector is currently valued at between €748 million and €1.5 billion. Legalising and effectively controlling online operations could substantially lower these numbers, generating around €1 billion in tax revenue for the state.

If approved, the initiative would impose a 55.6% tax on the turnover of iGaming companies.

The proposal has received support from the following online operators:

• Unibet;
• Betclic;
• Winamax.

These firms are keen to operate legally within the local market and support its growth to meet the interests of all stakeholders, including the government and punters.

Currently, France has one of the most stringent regulatory frameworks for gambling in Europe, with all forms of online casino content strictly banned. However, authorities permit the operation of sports betting and poker platforms.

Effects on the Land-Based Gaming Sector

The initiative has faced resistance from representatives of the brick-and-mortar segment. Grégory Rabuel, CEO of Barrière Groupe and President of Casinos de France, expressed concerns that legalising the online sector could lead to a 20–30% drop in GGR for physical establishments.

Mr Rabuel warned that up to 30% of land-based gambling venues might shut down, potentially leading to job losses for around 15,000 employees. To prevent this outcome, he proposed granting physical casinos a 3-year exclusivity period to run online platforms before opening the market to broader competition.

Despite resistance, the government claims that iGaming regulation is crucial for ensuring stability.

Officials are convinced that legalisation could positively result in:

• reducing the black market;
• drawing in foreign investments;
• mitigating gambling addiction;
• enhancing player protection;
• boosting tax income for the national economy;
• managing financial risks associated with illegal operations.

The document's provisions are currently under review in local budget discussions, with a final decision expected by the end of 2024. If passed, the initiative would position France alongside leading European entertainment markets.