AFJEL disputes ANJ’s report on French online betting rise

In 2024, the online gambling sector in France achieved unprecedented success, with gross gaming revenue (GGR) soaring to an all-time high of €2.6 billion. According to figures released by the French gambling regulator, L’Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ), this 12 percent year-on-year increase was primarily driven by a surge in sports betting. This sector contributed €1.8 billion to the gross gaming revenue, marking a 19 percent increase over the previous year.

In addition to this growth, the French state benefitted from gaming tax revenues totaling €1.4 billion in 2024, reflecting the substantial fiscal contribution of the regulated gaming sector.

Isabelle Falque-Pierrotin, president of ANJ, noted that the pace of growth in France is “comparable to major European markets,” portraying a strong, expanding digital gaming landscape. However, despite the positive headline figures, industry insiders are voicing serious concerns about the sustainability of this trajectory.

AFJEL raises the alarm over future instability

The French Online Gaming Association (AFJEL) has expressed skepticism toward ANJ’s positive projections, cautioning that the reported growth in 2024 could be deceptive. According to AFJEL, the performance has been artificially inflated by two exceptional events: the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament and the upcoming Paris Olympic Games.

“These events have undeniably boosted short-term engagement, but the underlying fundamentals remain weak,” AFJEL said in a recent statement. The association emphasized that online betting, while growing, still represents less than 20 percent of France’s overall gaming market. In contrast, land-based gambling continues to dominate with a commanding 80 percent share.

Across Europe, the average share of online gaming is 39 percent, according to data from the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA). This indicates that France lags significantly behind its continental counterparts in the digital transition of its gambling sector.

Market imbalance and regulatory burdens

AFJEL argues that structural imbalances and rising fiscal pressures could soon threaten the viability of the regulated market. One of the primary concerns involves recent tax increases and the introduction of a new levy on advertising investments. These measures, AFJEL claims, could disproportionately affect licensed operators—those who are integral to maintaining consumer safety and combating illegal gambling.

“Rather than strengthening the regulated market, these tax burdens risk weakening it, opening the door even wider for unlicensed, illegal platforms to thrive,” the association warned.

AFJEL also pointed out that the regulated sector already faces immense challenges from illegal operators. These platforms, operating without oversight or player protection measures, are becoming increasingly prevalent. The association estimates that more than four million French citizens are exposed daily to illicit gaming sites, which frequently engage in aggressive marketing tactics and are often linked to cybercrime and fraudulent practices.

The illegal market: a growing threat

In its strongly worded statement, AFJEL painted a grim picture of the growing influence of unregulated gambling platforms. These illegal operators are not bound by French law and thus avoid taxation, consumer protections, and responsible gaming obligations. As a result, they can afford to offer more attractive odds and aggressive promotions, luring vulnerable players away from legitimate platforms.

According to AFJEL, this trend undermines the long-term health of the entire sector. Not only does it deprive the French government of much-needed revenue, but it also exposes millions of citizens to serious risks—including addiction, fraud, and lack of recourse in the event of disputes.

“Unchecked growth of the illegal gambling market poses a serious threat to our economy, our security, and the well-being of French consumers,” the association stated.

Online casinos remain illegal in France

While France has seen a significant increase in online sports betting activity, the country still prohibits online casino games such as slots, roulette, and blackjack. This regulatory gap creates a fragmented digital gaming market and, according to AFJEL, drives players to illegal platforms that offer a full suite of games.

Nicolas Béraud, president of AFJEL and CEO of the gaming company Betclic, argues that there is an urgent need to revisit this restriction. “The legalisation of online casinos is essential if we want to create a balanced and competitive market,” Béraud said. “As it stands, we are pushing players into the hands of offshore operators who face no scrutiny or tax obligations.”

Béraud emphasized that while 2024 may appear to be a banner year for the sector, the foundation of this success is not as solid as it appears. “Although this year has seen record contributions to public finances and activity boosted by a unique sports calendar, it is ultimately an illusion of sustainable growth,” he added.

Policy outlook and industry recommendations

AFJEL is now calling on French lawmakers and regulators to engage in constructive dialogue with industry stakeholders. The goal, according to the association, should be to develop a balanced regulatory framework that supports innovation, protects players, and ensures fair competition among operators.

Among the association’s recommendations are:

Re-evaluation of the tax regime: AFJEL suggests that the government reconsider recent tax hikes, particularly those targeting advertising investments, which are crucial for legal operators to remain visible against illegal competition.

Legalisation and regulation of online casinos: Creating a legal path for online casinos would help recapture revenue currently flowing to offshore sites and increase consumer protection.

Stronger measures against illegal operators are essential, including advanced technology and legal frameworks to identify, restrict, and take action against unlicensed platforms targeting players in France.

Player education and harm prevention: Increased investment in responsible gaming initiatives and public awareness campaigns to reduce the risks of addiction and fraud.

What lies ahead for 2025?

Despite the record performance in 2024, the outlook for 2025 is far from certain. The impending tax increases, economic headwinds, and regulatory challenges could suppress growth and erode the gains made over the past year. Furthermore, with no major international sporting events on the horizon, the momentum provided by the Euros and the Olympics is likely to wane.

Many operators fear a market contraction in the absence of reform. The situation could become particularly dire if illegal operators continue to expand their reach while regulated platforms are burdened with increased costs and tighter restrictions.

AFJEL’s final warning underscores the stakes involved: “If current trends continue without strategic intervention, France risks ceding its online gambling sector to criminal networks and foreign operators—at the cost of public revenue, national security, and consumer safety.”

Conclusion

In conclusion, while France’s online gambling sector experienced remarkable growth in 2024, this success masks deeper structural challenges and risks ahead. The heavy reliance on exceptional sporting events, rising tax burdens, and the persistent threat of illegal operators create an uncertain future for the industry. Without urgent regulatory reforms—particularly the legalization of online casinos and a balanced tax framework—the market’s stability and player protections could be compromised, potentially undermining both public revenues and consumer safety in the years to come.

FAQs

Why is AFJEL concerned about France's online gambling growth?
AFJEL believes the growth in 2024 is artificially inflated by major events like Euro 2024 and the Olympics, and that underlying structural issues remain unaddressed.

How much did the French online gambling market grow in 2024?
Gross gaming revenue rose by 12 percent year-on-year, reaching €2.6 billion, with sports betting accounting for €1.8 billion.

What share does online gambling hold in the overall French gambling market?
Online gambling accounts for less than 20 percent of the total market in France, compared to 39 percent across Europe.

Why is the growth in 2024 seen as “illusory”?
AFJEL argues that the growth was driven by exceptional events and may not be sustained in 2025, especially with new tax pressures and regulatory constraints.

What threats do illegal gambling operators pose?
Illegal platforms often lack consumer protections, evade taxes, and expose users to cyber risks, addiction, and fraud.

Is online casino gambling legal in France?
No, online casino games remain illegal in France, which drives demand toward unregulated offshore sites.

What is AFJEL recommending for a healthier gambling sector?
AFJEL suggests legalising online casinos, revising tax policies, cracking down on illegal operators, and increasing player protection measures.

How are licensed operators being impacted by tax changes?
Rising taxes and advertising levies are making it more difficult for licensed operators to compete and stay profitable, which could shrink the legal market.

How many players are affected by illegal gambling in France?
AFJEL estimates that over four million players are regularly exposed to illegal gambling platforms in France.

What does the future hold for France’s online gambling market?
Without regulatory reforms and strategic changes, France may face a downturn in 2025, and illegal operators could further entrench themselves in the market.