Gaming Authority raises fresh concerns over French online gambling licensing

The French gambling industry has made headlines yet again this week after the Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LGA) in Malta raised concerns regarding terms of French licensing. The LGA has objected to licenses issued to companies hoping to operate in the online French gambling market. Many have speculated that the dispute centres on the law which stipulates that players must choose operators with a French license for online play. The details of the dispute have yet to be disclosed.

Gaming licenses have already been granted to the online gaming provider Arjel along with a number of other high profile names. New licenses may be delayed, however, as the LGA’s objections are explored. Current license holders now include some of the biggest companies in the gaming industry. PokerStars is able to operate in France as is Chili Poker via Gaming Iliad SAS, Partouche via Partouche Gaming France SAS and FriendBet via LIL Managers Limited. 

Commenting on the controversy. CEO of the LGA, Ruben Portanier was careful not to disclose too much detailed information. He noted that concerns centred around “certain elements” which were “not consistent with EU treaty provisions” and insisted on the experience of Malta’s jurisdiction. Asked whether objections were motivated by unwanted competition, he added that "Maltese licenses are issued to operators in and from Malta, in compliance with EU regulations." He added that "it is not a case of Malta being afraid of competition, but everyone must ensure the game is fair”. With numerous competing interests at stake, it is clear that all members of the gaming community will be watching how the debate unfolds closely.