France Debates Legalizing Online Casinos: A Gamble with Addiction and Jobs?

For years, France has maintained strict control over its gambling industry, with only 202 physical casinos authorized across the country. These establishments, found along the French coasts and in major regions, operate under tight regulations, including ID checks and dress codes.

However, a new amendment proposed by the government is shaking up the status quo. As part of the 2025 budget, the possibility of legalizing online casinos is being considered. The government estimates that taxing the gross gaming revenue at 55.6%, similar to the national lottery, could generate €1 billion in annual revenue, a tempting prospect as Michel Barnier seeks to reduce France’s deficit.

But the proposal is facing strong opposition from various sectors. Here’s why:

Experts Warn of Addiction Risks

Currently, an estimated 3 to 4 million French citizens already gamble on online casino sites based abroad, often unaware of their illegal status. The National Gaming Authority (ANJ) has launched campaigns to raise awareness about the risks associated with online gambling, including compulsive gambling, significant financial losses, debt, family problems, and identity theft. According to the ANJ, “79% of the revenue from the illegal market is generated by players with problematic gambling habits.”

Addiction specialists have voiced concerns, stating that expanding online gambling options is “encouraging a drug.” They argue that digital slot machines are particularly addictive due to the rapid pace of bets, quick results, frequent small wins, and high return-to-player rates.

These games can create dependence faster than other forms of gambling because of the solitary, continuous, and rapid nature of play, with bets placed every three to four seconds.

Minors at Risk

A major concern is the potential impact on minors. While physical casinos require adults to accompany minors, online casinos could be easily accessible to underage individuals, making them vulnerable to addiction.

The French Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (OFDT) reports that an increasing number of 17-year-olds have been accessing online gambling sites since 2011, despite regulations. A 2023 survey found that approximately one in ten 17-year-olds exhibit problematic gambling behaviors that may require clinical evaluation. In 2022, a third of 15-17 year olds reported having gambled, with half of them doing so online.

Addictions France has issued an open letter highlighting the significant risks of legalizing online casinos.

Land-Based Casinos Fear Closure

Representatives of traditional casinos have expressed strong opposition to the proposed amendment. Grégory Rabuel, president of the Casinos de France union, stated that “authorizing online casinos will sign our death warrant.” He estimates that the move could lead to a 20-30% decrease in revenue for land-based casinos and the closure of 30% of establishments.

Rabuel also warns that 15,000 jobs could be lost, and 65 of the 202 French casinos, particularly smaller ones, could be forced to close. In contrast, Nicolas Béraud, head of the French Online Gaming Association and director of Betclic, welcomes the amendment, pointing out that the illegal online gambling market in France is larger than the legal one, representing between €748 million and €1.5 billion, according to a December 2023 ANJ report.

“Land-based casinos give 1.5 billion to the State and local authorities. If online casinos arrive tomorrow, 30% of the 202 casinos will close with 15,000 job losses.”

Mayors Urge Government to Reconsider

Politicians are also divided on the issue. The Horizons group, led by Édouard Philippe, has announced its opposition to the legalization of online casinos, as have the National Rally (RN) and the Socialist Party.

A hundred mayors signed a letter in Le Figaro, urging the Prime Minister not to authorize online casinos through an amendment “without consultation.” They fear a decline in mental health, increased addiction, and the “destruction of 15,000 non-relocatable jobs.” They also anticipate a drop in revenue for physical casinos, leading to a drastic reduction in tax revenue for local authorities, which are already facing budget constraints.

The mayors estimate that opening “the Pandora’s box of online casinos” could cost them €440 million. “Do not make this mistake,” they plead.

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