Modifications to the Belgian gambling law means the legal age has been raised to 21.

Following publication in the Belgian Official Gazette, the Belgian Gambling Commission confirmed the change on its website.

A series of alterations, which will come into force from September, also cover a ban in principle on advertising games of chance.

There will also be a new ban on the cumulation of online licences on the same website.

The modification of the legal gambling age will apply to sports betting, arcades, and bingo.

Tom De Clercq, chair of the Belgian Association of Gaming Operators, said (via Yogonet): “BAGO has repeatedly spoken out in favour of limiting advertising, including through traditional media.

“But we have also always warned that a total ban on advertising in places where illegal operators are massively present, especially online, will have serious side effects.”