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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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Reevaluating Europe’s Transport Strategy Amid Global Energy Pressures

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

April 20, 2026

Transport challenges in Europe are intensifying as global energy market volatility and the crisis in the Middle East push fuel costs higher and increase economic uncertainty. EU Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades warned that the sector is approaching a critical point, calling for a coordinated response at the European Union level.

Coordinated Response In A Time Of Uncertainty

At a recent meeting in Limassol, representatives from EU Member States’ transport administrations convened to address mounting pressures on the sector. Minister Vafeades outlined a timeline that includes a videoconference on April 21 and further discussions at the Informal Council on April 27–28. Discussions will focus on rising fuel costs, risks of supply chain disruptions, and broader implications for connectivity across Europe.

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Economic Impacts And Inflationary Concerns

Although the European Union is not facing fuel shortages, instability in global energy markets is already affecting transport operators and businesses. Rising costs for diesel and jet fuel are placing pressure on operational budgets while contributing to broader inflationary trends.

Transforming Transport Policy For A Competitive Future

Cyprus, currently holding the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU, has placed transport policy at the center of its agenda. Minister Vafeades emphasized that transport now extends beyond mobility to include competitiveness, internal market efficiency, social cohesion, and climate objectives. This broader approach is aimed at strengthening resilience and ensuring stability amid external pressures.

Building Connectivity And Resilience

Permanent Secretary Marina Ioannou Hasapi reinforced the need for coordinated European action, noting that geopolitical uncertainty highlights the importance of preparedness and pragmatic policymaking. Ongoing disruptions, including airspace closures and developments affecting the Strait of Hormuz, continue to influence global oil markets. Ensuring stable supply chains and secure energy access remains a priority.

Current discussions at the EU level will determine how quickly member states can respond to rising fuel costs and potential supply disruptions. Outcomes from the upcoming April meetings are expected to shape short-term transport policy coordination across the bloc.