Illegal gambling in France could be valued at €1.5 billion per year, comprising over 10% of the country’s total annual wagering.

A study by the French gambling regulator, l’Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ), identified 510 illicit websites, with 21 responsible for 60% of the illegal traffic. Research by PwC estimates that the gross gaming revenue (GGR) from illegal gambling ranges between €748 million and €1.5 billion, representing 5% to 11% of the total gambling market, which hit a record €12.9 billion in 2022.

Notably, 79% of GGR from illegal online gambling is generated by high-risk gamblers, drawn by the absence of limits and identity checks, higher potential winnings, and a wider game selection. Half of the identified operators of illegal gambling websites are registered in Curaçao. Online casino games and slot machines make up approximately 50% of illicit online gambling traffic.

The ANJ, which commissioned the study, plans to take vigorous measures against illegal gambling, including reporting actions against operators in Curaçao or Cyprus and raising awareness about the risks of illegal gambling.

Despite France’s record GGR of €12.9 billion in 2022, ANJ emphasizes the need to address the threats posed by illegal gambling.

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