A Belgian gaming enterprise, Gaming1, has issued a document revealing how stringent regulations are negatively impacting the legitimate gambling sector.
The report centers on the effects of a new Belgian law on authorized gambling firms.
The Belgian gambling industry association, Bago, asserts that the government disregarded recommendations from the country’s gambling commission during the enactment of this new legislation.
Gaming1 cites a poll conducted by Nepa in 2023. The survey revealed that more individuals are utilizing unauthorized gambling websites since the implementation of the new law. Within the initial three months following the law’s passage, there was a 6% surge in individuals using illicit websites and a 4% increase in funds deposited on these unauthorized platforms.
Gaming1 emphasizes two significant studies in their report. The first, originating from the Belgian Gaming Commission, contains a catalog of 500 prohibited websites. The second report, from Yield Sec, demonstrates a substantial rise in the quantity of illegal gambling websites. Yield Sec identified 2,214 illicit websites in 2023, representing a 4.4-fold increase compared to previous figures.
## The Dangers of the Underground Market
As the summer sporting season approaches, Gaming1 emphasizes the significance of combating illicit gambling, a task more critical than ever.
However, this can be a difficult endeavor. Gaming1 highlights that larger rewards, easier accessibility, and the potential for participation in gambling below the legal age of 21 are major attractions of the underground market.
As a result, participants face the risk of legal repercussions when wagering with illicit operators. They also lack safety assurances or responsible gambling mechanisms to safeguard them from harm.
Illicit websites are also widespread. A survey conducted by IPSOS and the Belgian Gaming Commission (BGC) revealed that 4 out of the 10 most recognized gambling websites in Belgium are illegal.
## Excessive Regulation Viewed as a Challenge
Gaming1’s report voices concerns about the impact of excessive regulation on legitimate operators. In recent years, Belgium has implemented a series of adjustments to the gambling market aimed at protecting players.
However, Gaming1 contends that these measures are becoming “increasingly strict,” sometimes counterproductive in the context of online gambling.
Since 2020, Belgium has prohibited bonuses and free bets, while also imposing a weekly deposit limit of €200 (£171.48/$216.54). Following a royal decree in 2023 that nearly completely prohibited advertising, the age limit for sports betting was subsequently raised to 21, a change that will take effect this September.
Gaming1 contends that these modifications fall short of effectively resolving the issue, accusing regulatory bodies of employing a strategy that labels the industry rather than relying on a scientific method.
Gaming1 asserts that these alterations have not genuinely addressed the problem. The company believes that the regulations appear to be founded on the negative portrayal of the industry rather than a scientific approach. The sector provides employment for approximately 16,000 individuals in Belgium. According to BGC 2022 data, the industry contributes around €1.17 billion in taxes to the economy annually.
Gaming1 advocates for a more nuanced approach.
Gaming1 calls for more cautious measures against the illicit market, rather than what the company sees as a strategy that unfairly criticizes the gambling industry.
The operator suggests that self-imposed limitations, self-evaluation tests, and tailored messages based on risk levels are three potential strategies that should be more effectively implemented.
Gaming1 also emphasizes the need to achieve a “balance” between regulation and fostering a competitive industry. To accomplish this, Gaming1 highlights the importance of establishing a more robust dialogue between relevant stakeholders, such as lawmakers and regulators.
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