The European Betting and Gaming Association (EBGA) has voiced its thoughts on the drafted German State Treaty for gambling. It has mentioned that it welcomes the progress made, but still has reservations.
Part of its suggestions include asking Germany to revisit the proposed regulations, meaning that affiliates and operators may need to wait longer for clarification.
Thoughts within Germany not necessarily echoed elsewhere
Last week, it was announced that lottery in Germany would retain its current monopoly structure. Moreover, the current ban for online casino – which exists in most jurisdictions – would be lifted.
As part of the proposed changes to existing legislation, sports betting would remain legal.
All of these changes will be effective as of July 2021, if they’re agreed at the upcoming Minister-Presidents meeting. This is due to take place on 5th March 2020.
The EBGA assessed the treaty after the country’s 16 Federal States had sat down. It argued that keeping on top of regulated activities would be difficult, since channelling rates here are currently low. In fact, according to 2017 statistics, only 1.8% of gambling activity in Germany was performed via regulated means.
Reconsideration needed?
According to the EBGA, some of the existing proposals would have more of a negative effect than positive. In particular, it was unsure about live betting restrictions, advertising and measures related to curbs on player account activity.
Maarten Haijer, Secretary General of the EBGA, said: “The challenge will be to deliver a new regulation which is fit for the digital age we live in, which provides a safer gambling environment for consumers and enables a well-regulated and well-channelled market.”
He continued by mentioning that he’s looking forward to meeting with German authorities to discuss the best path forward.
Concerns within Germany
In addition to the EBGA, some within Germany are also unsure that the Treaty’s proposed terms are the best way to go. For example, the German Sports Betting Association (DSVW) also expressed concerns about restrictive terms.
But there has also been support. Although the Deutscher Lotto und Totoblock (DLTB) was previously against legalised online casino, it has since shifted its stance. Instead, it wants lottery betting to be banned.
