The government won’t explore online casinos to full budget gaps for the next fiscal year
France has paused its efforts to introduce online casino legislation, choosing not to include a proposed amendment in its 2025 Budget that would have opened the door to a regulated iGaming market. This announcement was made by Budget Minister Laurent Saint-Martin, who noted the government’s decision to withdraw the amendment.
The minister cited the need for further consultations to prevent potential negative effects, particularly on the country’s land-based casino sector. Saint-Martin emphasized caution, stressing the importance of safeguarding regional jobs and ensuring that new measures wouldn’t undermine existing stakeholders.
Initially, the proposed amendment aimed to help reduce France’s national debt by raising an estimated €500 million (US$541 million) in tax revenue from online casinos. It included a suggested gross gaming revenue (GGR) tax of 27.8%, which, combined with other federal taxes, would bring the effective tax rate for online casinos to about 55%.
However, this proposal met immediate resistance, particularly from local leaders and land-based casino representatives. Approximately 130 French mayors published an editorial in Le Figaro arguing against the measure, warning it could open “Pandora’s box” and potentially harm local economies rather than support the state’s financial goals.
The land-based casino sector, represented by the trade group Casinos de France, voiced concerns about potential advantages that online platforms would have without being bound by the same social responsibilities and taxes as physical casinos. They urged the government to consider a model similar to the current structure governing land-based establishments, which prioritizes local economies and community interests.
Casinos de France President Grégory Rabuel expressed relief, praising the government’s choice to listen to regional concerns and promising continued oversight to ensure future decisions involve “consultation and constructive dialogue.” For now, France’s gambling regulations will remain unchanged, leaving online casino legalization off the table but open to further review in the future.
Emma Rodriguez is the Proofreader at the Big Blind, with seven years of experience and five years in online gambling. She plays a crucial role in maintaining content quality by ensuring error-free, reader-friendly information about the gambling industry.
