German Gambling Authority Cracks Down on Illegal Operators, Reports Market Growth

The Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde der Länder (GGL), Germany’s joint gambling authority, has reported significant progress in its efforts to combat illegal gambling. In the past year, the GGL filed over 100 criminal complaints against providers of unauthorized gambling services.

According to GGL head Ronald Benter, the crackdown is proving effective. “We have succeeded in bringing many offers into a legal framework,” he stated. Violations primarily involve unauthorized advertising and the offering of illegal games.

The authority, based in Halle (Saale), officially began its operations in early 2023, overseeing and regulating the gambling market across Germany’s states.

Legal Market Expansion and New Seal of Approval

By the end of the year, the GGL had registered 143 operators authorized to offer legal online gambling. In a landmark move, the authority revoked a license and imposed a fine for the first time. The GGL also introduced a new seal, allowing providers to demonstrate their compliance with state regulations.

Gambling Revenue Increases, Online Sector Grows

The overall legal gambling market, encompassing online platforms, lotteries, and casinos, has experienced growth. Gross gaming revenue reached approximately €13.7 billion, representing players’ losses, according to Benter. This is an increase from the €13.4 billion lost by German gamblers the previous year.

The online gambling sector’s share of the total market has risen by three percentage points to 22%, with sports betting accounting for a significant portion of this growth.

Vigilance During Euro Cup

Looking ahead to the European Football Championship in Germany, the GGL is part of a team monitoring potential match-fixing. To date, no information regarding manipulation has been received.