The Belgian Gambling Crusade: BAGO Urges Reinforced Regulatory Powers
Offshore gaming platforms attract one-quarter of Belgian gamers, according to a cautionary statement issued by the regulatory body.
The Belgian Association of Gaming Operators (BAGO), a trade association focused on analyzing Belgium's locally-regulated gambling market, has sounded the alarm over the mounting challenges that the industry faces. In a bold move, the association disclosed the findings of a new study, shedding light on the widespread issue of illegal gambling and the consequences it carries.
Uncontrolled Gambling: A Magnet for Young Belgians
According to the latest findings of the study, a staggering 1 in 4 gamblers in Belgium are enticed by the allure of illicit gambling websites[1][2]. The study further reveals a shocking statistic: a whopping 47% of all self-excluded players find solace in these illicit channels, making a strong case for the urgent attention of lawmakers and industry stakeholders[1].
What lures these players to the illegal gambling arena? Primarily, the simpler onboarding process, as these sites require less stringent age verification, deposit limits, or self-exclusion checks compared to their regulated counterparts[1].
BAGO's Chairman, Tom De Clercq, warns that the current state of affairs sets a disconcerting precedent. He argues that excessive regulation has eroded the sector's competitive edge at a time when offshore gambling websites are under no obligation to comply with stringent consumer protection mandates[2].
De Clercq elucidates the consequences of this lax regulation, stating, "More and more individuals, particularly young and vulnerable groups, are venturing into the lawless, unregulated circuit. If we fail to act, Belgium and its neighboring countries risk losing control over their gambling markets."[2]
Waging War on Offshore Operators
De Clercq's concerns were echoed by BAGO Vice-Chairman, Emmanuel Mewissen. Both men agreed that strengthening the regulatory powers is essential to combat the scourge of illegal gambling[1].
Mewissen stresses that "only by expanding the regulator's legal mandate can it effectively combat illegal providers, defend consumers, and maintain a robust private market"[1].
Striking evidence from the study shows that a whopping 65% of males between the ages of 18 and 21 have indulged in illegal gambling, and a staggering 97% of those youngsters recognized at least one offshore gambling brand. This underscores the power and reach of these brands in the desirable demographic[1].
Our Head of Research, Matej Novota, shares similar sentiments, stating, "The BAGO study underscores an urgent issue: it's not sufficient to restrict access to offshore sites-we must also understand why players are turning to them in the first place and work to make the regulated market a more attractive alternative. We must shift our perspective and tackle offshore play as a market failure, not just a legal issue."[1]
The Path Forward: A Balanced Approach
BAGO calls for increased action to curb the growth of offshore operators, reduce their influence, and enhance the competitiveness of the local market[1]. Furthermore, the regulator should be empowered to tackle the menace of illegal gambling more effectively[1].
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References:
- The Belgian Association of Gaming Operators (BAGO), 2022. BAGO Report: Illegal Gambling in Belgium. [Online]. Available at: https://www.bago.be/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/BAGO-Report-Illegal-gambling.pdf
- Belgian Gaming Commission, 2021. Annual Report 2020. [Online]. Available at: https://www.kansspelcommissie.be/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Annual-Report-2020.pdf
Enrichment Data:
In essence, BAGO's call for greater regulatory powers is centered on protecting players, ensuring fair competition, and safeguarding market stability while addressing the far-reaching societal concerns associated with illegal gambling activities. This includes concerns related to player protection, tax evasion, market integrity, and criminal activity[1][2].
- The unfettered expansion of illegal gambling in Belgium, as revealed in the BAGO report, is a growing concern, with 1 in 4 gamblers drawn to illicit channels and 47% of self-excluded players seeking solace there, indicating a need for strengthened regulatory measures.
- With 65% of males between the ages of 18 and 21 engaging in illegal gambling and a staggering 97% recognizing at least one offshore gambling brand, it is evident that the appeal of unregulated gambling trends poses a significant threat to the Belgian market, necessitating a more attractive and competitive regulated market to combat the issue.
