France.- The French gambling regulator, l’Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ), has confirmed in its annual report that it has contributed to a consultation with the government on the possible legalisation of online casino gaming in France. The government had planned to legalise the vertical this year, but proposals were postponed amid opposition from land-based casinos.

At present, France permits online gambling only on sports, poker and lotteries. Casino games remain confined to physical venues. The ANJ cautioned that any move to expand the digital offering should be approached with caution due to the high potential for gambling-related harm.

“Given the significant public health risks and economic impact, a tightly controlled regulatory approach should be adopted,” it said in the report. It suggested that the potential market is comparable to the 2010 liberalisation of online betting. It said it has studied how other jurisdictions have introduced online casino regulation and assessed their impacts. It also signalled willingness to maintain dialogue with policymakers as deliberations continue.

Online gambling in France generated a record €2.6bn in gross gaming revenue in 2024, rising 12 per cent year-on-year, largely due to Euro 2024 and the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. However, operators are concerned about the impact of the the rise in French gambling tax.

The tax rate on lottery and Euromillions games will rise one point to 69 per cent of GGR, while social security contributions will increase to 7.2 per cent. Instant draw games will be levied at 56.5 per cent of GGR, retail betting tax will rise to 42.1 per cent, and online betting tax will rise from 54.9 per cent of GGR to 59.3 per cent. Online poker tax will increase from 0.2 per cent of stakes to 10 per cent of GGR.