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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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Cyprus Strengthens Digital Infrastructure Through New Transformation Push

Cyprus Embraces Digital Transformation With Strategic Precision

Cyprus is continuing to advance its digital transformation strategy, with competitiveness, resilience and inclusion positioned as central priorities within the country’s broader development agenda.

In a statement marking World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy said Cyprus is investing in modern digital infrastructure while seeking to ensure citizens can fully participate in an increasingly interconnected environment.

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Global Observance And Local Initiative

World Telecommunication and Information Society Day is observed annually on May 17, following its establishment by the International Telecommunication Union in recognition of developments in communications technologies since 1865.

For 2026, the ITU selected the theme “Digital Lifelines: Strengthening Resilience In A Connected World,” focusing on the importance of resilient infrastructure, including terrestrial networks, submarine cables, satellites and advanced data systems.

Ensuring Resilience And Continuity

According to the Deputy Ministry, strengthening the resilience of digital networks has become increasingly important as economies and societies rely more heavily on uninterrupted connectivity. Officials said the initiative aims to encourage cooperation between governments, businesses and local communities in safeguarding communications infrastructure, particularly during periods of disruption or crisis. The ministry added that reliable connectivity remains essential to ensuring equal access to communication and digital services.

Technological Investments And National Ambitions

Cyprus has already achieved full population coverage through 5G networks while also continuing the rollout of ultra-high-speed fibre optic infrastructure across the country. At the same time, authorities are investing in digital skills development programmes aimed at improving participation in the digital economy.

Future-Proofing Growth And Prosperity

The Deputy Ministry said its long-term strategy focuses on creating a secure and resilient digital environment capable of supporting economic growth and social development. Through cooperation with international partners and investments in technologies, including artificial intelligence and early warning systems, Cyprus aims to strengthen the infrastructure supporting its digital transition.