Unregulated Gambling Economy in Europe Valued at €91.6 Billion
New analysis across the EU-27 reveals 72% of online gambling gross gaming revenue (GGR) falls outside regulatory perimeter, amounting to €91.6 billion.
The unregulated online gambling sector across the 27 EU member states is estimated to be worth €91.6 billion. A recent analysis indicates that 72 percent of gross gaming revenue (GGR) from online gambling activities is not covered by local regulatory frameworks within the EU.
This significant gap in regulatory coverage stems from various factors, including inconsistent enforcement of legislation across member states and challenges faced by cross-border operators navigating different legal environments. The situation contributes to an uneven playing field and allows for the growth of illicit markets.
The analysis highlights the need for a more harmonized approach to gambling regulation within the EU. The objective is to enhance consumer protection, prevent money laundering, and ensure fair competition within the industry. The revenue falling outside the regulatory scope presents a substantial economic concern with implications for national budgets and law enforcement.
This issue has notable consequences for Europe's digital economy and consumer safety. Authorities are reportedly exploring measures to ensure that all online gambling operations are appropriately licensed and supervised.