The latest reports indicate that gambling in France has never been this popular. The total revenue increased to €346 million, which is a 27.7% year-on-year boost.
Sports betting attracts French players the most, and it is the most popular gambling form. However, online casino games are also gaining more users. The popularity of Lucky8 Casino and other reputable platforms comes from a wide variety of games and tempting bonuses offered to new players.
Why Is Gambling So Popular in France?
Before we discuss that, we will take a trip down the history lane. France is a country that has a long history of gambling. However, the market hasn’t been regulated for a long time. Furthermore, almost all types of gambling were banned by the government until recently. That is why many considered France a country that is not gaming-friendly.
That changed in 2010 when the government decided to implement new laws and regulate the market. Thanks to that, both land-based facilities and online operators had the legal framework to open up their businesses.Â
It was a smart deal for the government, too. Ensuring that gaming becomes legal also meant colossal income, which means it was a win-win situation. The new laws made horse race and sports betting, as well as poker, legal.
Today, you have many companies that have their main offices and branches in France. Even the government founded two gaming companies for lottery and horse race betting, but that changes with the implementation of the new regulatory body.
What Will the New Regulator Change?
In 2019, the authorities revealed that a new independent body would regulate online gambling. France already had an entity that takes care of this (ARJEL), but it seems it was time for a change.
Instead, everything will be regulated by a single body called ANJ (National Gaming Authority). The idea is for that body to be independent and have all the powers needed to regulate online gaming. That means operators will need to acquire a license from this authority before operating in France.
It is interesting to note that the government also plans to privatize the national lottery company FDJ. However, there is speculation they will keep a secondary level of control in the business.
Land-based casinos are not fond of that decision. In theory, privatizing the lottery company might mean it will offer casino games, which could hurt gaming facilities.
What Does This Mean for the Players?
It seems that the French government wants to ensure two things – tough regulation of the market and income. At this moment, tax rates in the gaming industry are high. Operators need to pay 6% of their turnover, which is quite harsh. However, the new regulating body might lower them to increase competitiveness. That can attract foreign providers, which is great news for the players.
Players should appreciate the fact that the government looks for ways to regulate the market. If anything, they can rest assured that any facility approved by the regulatory body is legit. That means you can relax and play your favorite games without worrying about the safety of your data or funds or fair play.
Sports betting, especially the football market, will probably remain the most popular option for players throughout the country. It might be surprising, but horse racing is also very popular. The statistics indicate that handball is also a frequent choice of bettors. France has a strong league, and they are the reigning World and Olympic Champions, so that’s reasonable.
Everything is about money, and that’s good news for those who want to play online casino games in France. The government looks for ways to boost the gambling economy, especially since they are falling behind compared to the rest of the European Union.
Additionally, there is a huge public demand that internet casino games become legal. That might be a great opportunity for the government to score some positive points with the people.
