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France Is Considering Legalizing Online Casinos

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

October 24, 2024

62%. This is public support for the French authorities’ intentions to legalize online casinos, according to a survey by the French Association of Online Games (AFJEL). Very soon, such legal amendments may become a fact, writes the French publication Le Figaro.

Online casinos in France are prohibited by law. Along with Cyprus, it is the only country in the EU that completely bans online casino games. French authorities only allow sports betting, horse racing, and poker online. The online lottery is also legal in France, although there is only one operator – La Française des Jeux (FDJ).

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However, in 2023, illegal online casinos operating in France generated an impressive 750 million euros in turnover, a sign that legal restrictions are in no way preventing these businesses from thriving from the comfort of tax havens, in which are registered.

Now the government is proposing changes as part of the draft budget for 2025, which would make the activity of online casinos subject to control. The texts were presented over the weekend and considered by French MPs on Monday. If the changes are finally adopted, virtual casino games will be taxed at 55.6% of their turnover.

The government claims that legalizing online casinos will help tackle the presence of illegal sites that often operate from tax havens. This could contribute to limiting the risk to public health,

However, the proposed amendments are not being taken lightly by casino owners, who have come out strongly against the amendment, which will expose their establishments to unwanted competition.

“According to our calculations, the opening of online casinos to competition will lead to a drop in gross gambling revenue of land-based casinos by around 20 to 30% and the closure of 30% of establishments,” said Gregory Rabuel, president of the Casinos de France union. to the French media Les Echos.

THE BUDGETARY POLICY OF FRANCE

Last year, France’s government deficit reached 5.5% of the country’s GDP, significantly exceeding forecasts and breaching the EU’s target of 3%. Late last month, new budget minister Laurent Saint-Martin revealed that this year’s deficit could exceed 6%.

While the government hopes to rein in spending, it is also looking for ways to raise revenue. Part of the country’s current financial problems are related to reduced tax revenues. This is partly because economic growth has recently been driven by exports rather than domestic consumption, resulting in lower VAT revenues.

A review of the revenue side of the 2025 state budget, which calls for 60 billion in new tax revenue, began on Monday, kicking off the most important few weeks of Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s tenure, whose government enjoys fragile support.

In his opening speech, Economy Minister Antoine Armand advocated a budget that would allow the public deficit to be reduced to 5% of GDP in 2025, rejecting any “austerity” while predicting a 0.4% increase in public spending

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96% Of Cypriot Fishers Say Government Support Falls Short, Survey Finds

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

March 19, 2026

Inadequate Government Support Sparks Alarm

Survey data from Oceana show 96% of Cypriot commercial fishers consider current government measures insufficient to support the sector. Findings come as Cyprus holds the presidency of the Council of the European Union.

Declining Fish Stocks And Mounting Environmental Pressures

The survey covered 47 commercial fishers across six coastal shelters. Results show 72% identified declining fish stocks as the main challenge, while 68% pointed to climate change and invasive species as key pressures on marine ecosystems. Fishers reported a need for stronger habitat protection and consistent application of fishing regulations to support stock recovery.

Economic Strain And Long-Term Viability At Stake

Survey findings indicate that reduced catches and weak enforcement of fisheries rules are affecting incomes and working conditions. Fishers reported longer hours at sea and higher income uncertainty. Demographic data show nearly two-thirds of fishers are over the age of 55, with limited entry from younger workers. Age profile raises concerns about long-term workforce sustainability in the sector.

A Call For Implementation, Fairness, And Accountability

Javier Lopez, Director of the Sustainable Fisheries campaign at Oceana in Europe, said fisheries policy outcomes depend on implementation and enforcement rather than policy commitments alone. European Commission is scheduled to review the Common Fisheries Policy in 2026. Report highlights need for improved monitoring, consistent enforcement, and compensation mechanisms during seasonal closures.

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Pathways To Recovery And Future Opportunities

Fishers identified measures to support recovery, including stronger controls on invasive species, consistent enforcement of fishing rules, and expanded access to quota-managed species. Sector outlook depends on policy implementation and enforcement as environmental and economic pressures continue.