Online Gambling in France
Online gambling platforms in France are regulated and overseen by government authorities to ensure the legality and safety of gaming activities. The primary body responsible for overseeing online gambling is the Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ).
Overview:
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Legal Framework:
- Online casinos in France are regulated by the 2010 Gambling Act (Loi relative à l’ouverture à la concurrence et à la régulation du secteur des jeux d’argent et de hasard en ligne). This law opened the online gambling market to competition and established rules for operators.
- A significant milestone was the creation of ANJ in 2020, which replaced the previous authority (ARJEL) and was given broader powers to oversee all aspects of gambling, including land-based casinos and online platforms.
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Permitted Types of Games:
- In France, only online platforms for sports betting, horse racing, and online poker are legally allowed.
- Online slots and other casino games, such as roulette and blackjack, are completely banned to mitigate the risks of addiction.
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Regulation and Oversight:
- Operators wishing to offer services in France must obtain a license from ANJ.
- ANJ monitors compliance with regulations, including consumer protection, measures to combat gambling addiction, and adherence to anti-money laundering laws.
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Player Protection Measures:
- Players can set limits on deposits and wagers.
- There is a self-exclusion option, allowing players to prohibit themselves from accessing gambling activities.
- ANJ actively conducts information campaigns on responsible gambling and the risks of addiction.
Conclusion:
The online gambling market in France is strictly regulated, with the primary goal of government policy being to ensure player safety and minimize the social risks associated with gambling. For those interested in gambling, it is important to be aware of the rules and regulations and to use only legal and licensed platforms.