France is taking a step towards the legalization of online casinos by proposing an amendment in the 2025 draft budget, aimed at strengthening the country’s public finances, reports Euronews.

The proposal, which was reviewed by the National Assembly, suggests that if approved, online casinos will be taxed at a rate of 55.6% of their turnover. Currently, online gambling in France is strictly regulated, with only sports betting, poker, and horse racing allowed, while games such as blackjack and roulette remain prohibited.

According to a study by the French gambling regulator (ANJ), illegal gambling websites generated between €748 million and €1.5 billion in revenue during the first three months of 2023. Legalizing online casinos is seen as a measure that could combat illegal platforms and reduce public health risks associated with gambling addiction.

Despite the potential benefits, representatives of physical casinos express concerns about the impact of this measure on their industry. Gregory Rabuel, president of the “Casinos de France” union, notes that the legalization of online casinos could lead to a 20-30% decline in the revenue of physical casinos, forcing up to 30% of them to close.

However, France’s financial challenges, including a public deficit of 5.5% of GDP last year, are increasing the need for additional revenue. The government views this measure as a way to address the deficit and boost budgetary income, especially in light of reduced tax revenues caused by economic stagnation in the domestic market.