In 2025, France’s illegal online gambling market has overtaken its regulated counterpart, as revealed by new data from the Association française des jeux en ligne (AFJEL). The association estimates that 5.4 million players are currently engaging with unlicensed websites, generating approximately €2 billion in gross gaming revenue (GGR) this year—a remarkable 25% increase since 2023. This surge indicates a significant shift in the country’s gambling landscape, with the black market expanding by 35% in terms of player numbers since 2023, while the regulated market accounts for only 3.5 million players.
AFJEL has sounded the alarm, describing the illegal market as an “industrialized form of organized crime,” exacerbated by pervasive online advertising that lures players into unauthorized betting environments. The group’s concerns are not just about the financial implications but also about the social and personal risks that accompany this unregulated growth.
Rising Addiction and Consumer Risks
The rampant growth of the illegal gambling market is accompanied by a worrying rise in addiction rates. AFJEL reports that more than 3 million people in France are now grappling with gambling addiction, and a staggering 62% of those using illegal sites exhibit excessive or pathological gambling behaviors—an “unprecedented” level of risk, according to the organization. Despite these figures, there is a troubling lack of awareness among players; 82% of users remain unaware that the platforms they frequent are illegal.
The allure of illegal gambling is tied to its most popular forms: online casinos, sports betting, and e-sports betting. Despite regulatory bans, online casino play continues to dominate the unlicensed market, indicating a demand that the legal sector has yet to fulfill.
In contrast, France’s legal gambling market has shown only modest growth. The Autorité nationale des jeux (ANJ) reported a 3.5% increase in regulated GGR in the first half of 2025, reaching €5.7 billion. However, this growth has done little to curb the expansion of illegal competition, suggesting that players may be seeking experiences not available in the legal market.
Cybercrime, Advertising, and Lost Taxes
AFJEL’s report underscores the deepening risks associated with illegal gambling. Approximately 70% of players in the illegal market have experienced data theft, phishing attempts, or financial fraud. Moreover, 90% of these players have been targeted by unsolicited advertisements, highlighting the aggressive marketing tactics employed by illegal operators.
The fiscal impact of the illegal market is equally concerning. France is estimated to lose around €1.2 billion annually in potential tax revenues, with an additional €4 billion in social costs linked to gambling addiction. These figures present a compelling case for reform, as the financial losses impact not only the gambling industry but also the broader economy.
Industry Pushes for Reform
Nicolas Béraud, president of AFJEL and CEO of Betclic, has called for a reassessment of France’s restrictive gambling framework. He advocates for regulatory changes that would allow for more comprehensive control of gambling activities, including those currently operating outside legal boundaries. “It is important that the public authorities control in the same way the other games of chance as online sports betting,” Béraud emphasized, noting the discrepancy in regulatory oversight.
Béraud pointed out that online casinos already exist in practice, albeit without state regulation. “France is one of the few countries that has not regulated online casino games,” he said, arguing that the issue is not about creating something new but about managing what is already prevalent.
Regulator Responds with Caution
Pauline Hot, director of the ANJ, acknowledges the need for potential reforms but advises caution. She warns against liberalization without stringent safeguards, emphasizing that any future authorization of currently illegal games would require a very tight regulatory framework. Hot highlighted the inherently addictive nature of casino games and the importance of maintaining a balance between market growth and player protection.
Additionally, Hot has raised concerns about the normalization of gambling, particularly its close ties with sports. The ANJ is considering implementing stricter advertising and sponsorship regulations and exploring player identification systems to enhance youth protection.
With illegal gambling now outpacing the regulated market, France is under mounting pressure to act. Options on the table include stricter enforcement of existing laws, the introduction of new regulations, or the long-overdue legalization of currently banned activities. The debate continues as stakeholders weigh the potential benefits of reform against the risks of inadequate regulation.
Sarah Thompson is a seasoned writer specializing in casino gaming and online gambling. With over a decade of experience in the industry, Sarah brings in-depth knowledge and a keen eye for detail to her work at CasinoNoDeposits.com. Her expertise lies in uncovering the latest no deposit bonuses and providing comprehensive reviews of online casinos. Passionate about helping players maximize their gaming experience, Sarah combines her analytical skills with a flair for engaging storytelling.
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