The European Casino Association (ECA) has released its Manifesto for the 2025-2029 EU policy period, outlining its commitment to promoting safety, responsible gaming, and economic growth within the regulated casino industry.
Titled "Winning Together: A Pledge to Fight Crime, Protect Consumers, and Support EU Competitiveness", the manifesto emphasizes three strategic priorities:
- Support: Ensuring a safe and regulated gaming environment.
- Protect: Advocating responsible gaming and consumer well-being.
- Promote: Driving economic growth and fair regulations.
Combatting Illegal Gambling
According to Yield Sec, 70% of online gaming revenue in the EU in 2024—around €32 billion—came from illegal operators. Additionally, €10 billion in illegal land-based gaming revenue deprives governments of taxes and weakens consumer protections.
The ECA calls for:
- Strengthened AML/CFT enforcement and Europol’s role in tackling illegal gambling networks.
- Fair licensing requirements for all operators targeting EU markets.
- Risk-based legislation that avoids empowering illegal operators.
Consumer Protection and Responsible Gaming
The manifesto stresses the importance of safeguarding players through strict regulations and technological safeguards, including tools for monitoring gambling behaviors and offering assistance to vulnerable consumers.
It also urges enforcement of the Digital Services Act (DSA) to prevent illegal gambling ads on digital platforms.
Economic Growth and Competitiveness
With 700 casinos in 29 countries and 70,000 employees, the ECA highlights the sector’s contributions to GDP, job creation, and local development. It calls for equitable access to banking services and financial tools for operators.
The ECA’s Call to Action:
- Strengthen enforcement against illegal operators.
- Protect consumers with effective regulations.
- Support legal operators to ensure growth, competitiveness, and safety.
MANIFESTO
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