German Gambling Regulator Highlights 2024 Achievements and Future Goals
The German Gambling Authority (GGL) has released its annual report for 2024, detailing advancements in regulating the gambling market while addressing the persistent challenge of combating illegal operations.
Key Achievements in 2024
The GGL undertook several initiatives to strengthen market oversight and curb unauthorised gambling activities:
- Payment and Advertising Restrictions: Collaborated with payment service providers to block transactions with illegal operators, reinforced by a favourable court decision in October 2024 against a Swiss payment service provider. Partnered with Google to limit gambling ads to licensed operators.
- Public Warnings System: Introduced public warnings to enhance transparency regarding violations by licensed operators.
- Educational Resources: Launched an FAQ section on its website, offering guidance on illegal gambling, licensing requirements, and player protection.
The authority also leveraged the Digital Services Act to improve geo-blocking capabilities and engaged in public discussions about Criminal Code reform and amateur sports betting.
Challenges and Market Insights
While the GGL notes that illegal online gambling activities remain below industry estimates, it acknowledges the need for reliable data. To address this, the regulator has commissioned studies on market dynamics, with results expected by late 2025.
Looking Ahead to 2025
The GGL plans to prioritise international cooperation and digital process enhancements in the coming year. Additionally, the authority anticipates results from studies on player protection, advertising, and market channelling, which will inform the ongoing evaluation of the State Treaty on Gambling 2021.
Board Member Ronald Benter emphasised the importance of collaboration, stating:
“The successes show that consistent measures and close cooperation with partners are crucial to curbing the illegal market.”
With these initiatives, the GGL aims to strengthen its regulatory framework and foster a safer gambling environment for players.