Working groups in France will hold their first discussions on regulating online casinos

Working groups tasked with evaluating whether France should license online casinos will convene on December 2. The first meeting will focus on how regulation can help address issues related to gambling addiction.
This outcome was achieved through stakeholder negotiations initiated by Budget Minister Laurent Saint-Martin earlier this month. The French government has decided to conduct a six-month consultation process led by three working groups.
The selected experts will tackle various issues, with the highest priority given to public health, consumer protection, and the economic impact of regulated online casinos on the country's land-based gambling industry. The working groups will be overseen by the French Ministry of Budget.
Political considerations will play a crucial role in shaping the direction of the discussions. The Ministries of Health and Culture are opposed to legalization or, at best, approach it with reluctance. In contrast, representatives from the Ministry of Budget view the anticipated tax revenues and the potential for reducing the national debt positively.
Moreover, there is a significant risk that Prime Minister Michel Barnier's government could face a vote of no confidence, which would halt the committees' work. However, stakeholders are likely to mobilize to bring the issue back to the table.
It is worth noting that the French government is set to begin consultations on the legalization of online casinos in 2025.