Belgium Faces Rising Risks from Unregulated Gambling Industry
In a recent report commissioned by the Belgian Association of Licensed Gaming Operators (BAGO), alarming insights have been revealed about the scale and impact of Belgium’s unregulated gambling industry. The findings expose significant risks to vulnerable populations and highlight the urgent challenges faced by regulatory authorities in tackling unregulated gambling in Belgium.
The investigation indicates that one in four Belgian gamblers—approximately 25%—has participated in Belgium’s unregulated gambling market by engaging with unlicensed gaming operators. This illicit activity undermines the integrity of Belgium’s legal gambling economy and poses substantial risks to consumers, particularly at-risk groups. Unlike licensed operators, these unregulated gambling platforms operate without legal oversight, bypassing critical safeguards such as age verification, EPIS registration, or deposit limits, which are essential for responsible gambling.
The report reveals a troubling trend among self-excluded gamblers. Nearly half (47%) of those who had previously opted out of licensed gambling venues have resumed gambling through unregulated gambling websites. The situation is particularly dire among young adults. Before the 2024 ban on gambling for individuals under 21, nearly 50% of surveyed males aged 18 to 21 admitted to using illegal gambling sites. Since the age restriction was enforced, this figure has surged to 65%, underscoring the growing allure of Belgium’s unregulated gambling market for younger demographics. Additionally, an astonishing 97% of these young men can identify at least one illegal gambling brand, indicating the widespread presence of unregulated gambling in Belgium.
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BAGO’s leadership has raised serious concerns about the trajectory of Belgium’s unregulated gambling industry. Tom De Clercq, the association’s chairman, described the situation as “on a slippery slope.” He emphasized that licensed operators adhere to stringent regulations, responsible gaming obligations, and player protections, while unregulated gambling operators face no such constraints. This disparity increases exposure for vulnerable groups, particularly young adults, to the dangers of unregulated gambling environments that lack oversight or safeguards.
Echoing these concerns, BAGO vice-chairman Emmanuel Mewissen stressed the need for enhanced regulatory capacity to combat Belgium’s unregulated gambling problem. He expressed strong support for the coalition’s efforts to empower the Gaming Commission, stating that a robust regulator is critical for curbing illegal operations, protecting consumers, and sustaining a well-regulated private gambling market. This is not the first time BAGO has sounded the alarm. As early as late 2024, the organization called for stricter regulation and enforcement to address the growing threat of unregulated gambling in Belgium, emphasizing the need to safeguard vulnerable populations, especially young adults, from the expanding illegal gambling scene.
