The National Gambling Authority (ANJ) has decided to demand more from gambling operators to combat excessive gambling in France. This initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at reducing the number of players in difficulty by 2026. The ANJ’s goal is to create a balance between openness and protection, thereby strengthening the French regulatory model. This approach is crucial to ensure a safer gambling environment for everyone.
A concerning gaming phenomenon
The ANJ has identified alarming figures regarding excessive gambling in France. Currently, one in two French people gamble, and annual spending amounts to nearly 55 billion euros. Among them, 1.4 million players are considered at risk, and about 400,000 are already suffering from addiction. These players account for 38% of the operators’ revenue, with 21% coming from pathological gamblers. The ANJ emphasizes that, despite progress in player protection, additional efforts are necessary. This phenomenon is particularly concerning for young people, prompting the ANJ to develop a strategy focused on reducing excessive gambling and the associated social harms.
Significant reduction of excessive gaming
The ANJ aims for a of by adopting a less intensive approach. Here are the main measures to come:
- Tighter regulation of the gaming environment.
- Enhanced measures to prevent minors from accessing the game.
- Possible controls at points of sale.
- Limiting marketing pressure on vulnerable populations.
These initiatives aim to protect young people and reduce the number of problem players.
Other strategies to be implemented by 2026
The ANJ is firmly committed to combating illegal gambling, which generates revenue between 748 million and 1.5 billion euros. In the coming years, it plans to intervene across the entire black market ecosystem, including payment service providers and platforms. This comprehensive strategy also aims to adapt to the current changes in the sector, particularly the digitization and the debates surrounding e-sports and online casinos. The ANJ will strive to protect players while developing an innovative offering. The Sorare law, which concerns games with monetizable digital objects, will be one of the challenges to tackle. The ANJ anticipates legislative changes to strengthen its approach.
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