GermanyRegulatory approach for online gambling is entering a significant period because stakeholders have braces themselves 2026 review of State treaty on gamblingActive since 2021, the law integrated the national rules controlling internet casinos, sports betting and virtual slot games. However, showing updated measures Stress signsEspecially about consumer protection and enforcement.
Deposit boundaries require a complete overhaul
Recently held in a webinar German online casino association (Docv), industry leaders, legal experts and drug addiction experts gave their verdict Status of industryThe incident exposed Growing stress Between the rules designed to protect consumers and Rapid competitive and complex Digital gambling landscape.
Monthly deposit limit An important point of dispute remains. While this interim regulation has been extended through End of 2025The future of the cap remains uncertain. Docv vice president Simon Preglinger-Sideder It has been asked to introduce clear and more useful guidelines, arguing that the regulator uncertainty obstructs the consumer protection and business plan.
The objective is to create a permanent model that provides long -term stability for operators. This is something that we definitely want to solve before 2026.
Simon Preglinger-Sidder, DOCV Vice President
Other experts label the current solution as unacceptable and very vague. As it stands, gamblers can increase their deposit limit € 1,000 ($ 1,153) € 10,000 ($ 11,530) by proving its “economic capacity” through official documents. Critics argue that it does not follow the requirement Consistent legal structureExcept operators in a legal gray field.
Black market operators remain a pressure threat
The so -called “€ 1 rule”, which restricts bets on online slot machines € 1 per spinHad to face harsh criticism. Skeptics are adamant on the fact that boundary Sports restraints the variety And encourages the gambler to look for a black-marketing option. Operator agrees that this rule Wrongly handicapped Licensed sites because Uncontrolled platform Often ignore such restrictions completely.
Illegal gambling regulators and licensed operators remain a pressure issue as Docv estimates that licensed provider accounts Only 20% to 40% Of Online slot activityDocv and its colleagues thus urge MPs, demand, demand Enforcement efforts increased And Low regulator burden For the regulated area. A proposal involves reducing the current tax at stake to help licensed companies to be competitive.
The review of the State Treaty in 2026 presents an opportunity for Germany Recruit its gambling rulesDiscussion is already going on, and the coming year may be important for this region. Priglinger-Simader aims to promote Honest, open debate With regulators and policy makers, Find a balance Between the players conservation and the need for a functional legal market.
