The European Casino Association (ECA) has presented a new manifesto that seeks to address regulatory challenges and support European Union policy goals between 2025 and 2029.
More specifically, the new manifesto aims to focus on pressing matters such as battling illegal gambling, economic growth, and consumer protection in the legal, land-based casino industry of the European Union.
According to the European Casino Association, illegal gambling operators generate a whopping €32 billion ($33 billion) from online gambling and an additional €10 billion ($9 billion) from land-based gambling each year across European member states.
Due to these illegal activities, EU governments are deprived of more than €10 billion in tax revenue while at the same time endangering consumers and violating regulatory standards.
The new manifesto highlights three crucial pillars – Support, Protect, and Promote – specifically created to align with European priorities.
The ECA vows to help policymakers in ensuring a well-regulated and safe gambling environment, underlining the need for stricter laws and enforcement against illegal gambling operators.
In addition, the ECA is also an advocate for improving existing enforcement mechanisms and is a proponent for reinforcing anti-money laundering regulations (AML).
Erwin van Lambaart, ECA Chair, commented on the manifesto:
This document reflects our commitment to supporting the EU and Member States’ efforts to uphold a regulated and responsible land-based casino sector. We call on policymakers to collaborate with us in safeguarding the integrity of the gaming industry against illegal operators while fostering economic growth and protecting consumers.
Furthermore, the manifesto also supports the application of the European Digital Services Act aimed at preventing illegal gambling advertisements via online platforms and social media, urging policymakers to reinforce Europe’s role in battling financial crimes.
The last segment of the manifesto refers to positive economic contributions made by licensed gambling operators, with the ECA highlighting their role in employing thousands of people across the European Union and contributing to national GDPs and their support of local economies via tourism, job creation, and cultural sponsorships.
