Brussels warns about the illegal gambling market
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28 Feb 2026 •
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On 24 February in Brussels, the European Economic Dialogues, organised by CommStrat in partnership with MEDEF, brought together politicians, industrialists and experts to discuss a question that has become strategic: the future of the online gambling sector in Europe.
A strategic sector that is still underestimated
Gathered in Brussels for the European Economic Dialogues organised by CommStrat – Communication Stratégique and MEDEF, politicians, industrialists and experts warned of the major challenges facing the online gaming industry. The conclusion shared by the speakers was clear: Europe has the technological and industrial resources to succeed, but is still struggling to transform this potential into sustainable economic power.
The figures presented during the discussions came as a shock to participants. According to data cited by AFJEL, nearly 71% of the European online gaming market is currently controlled by illegal operators. The gross revenue from these games is estimated at €80 billion, resulting in an estimated €20 billion in lost tax revenue for the European Union.
Regulating without weakening: the European equation
The first round table was devoted to economic simplification. Alongside Markus Beyrer and economist Sylvie Matelly, Isabelle Djian Lignon argued for a fair balance between regulation and competitiveness. According to industry representatives, over-regulation or excessive taxation could paradoxically strengthen illegal operators, who are able to escape European constraints.
The discussions also highlighted growing international pressure. Faced with global digital players often based outside Europe, European companies have to contend with multiple and sometimes contradictory regulatory frameworks.
Cybersecurity and data: a matter of sovereignty
During the second round table on economic sovereignty, attended by Fabrice Le Saché, Sophie Batas and MEP François-Xavier Bellamy, among others, a consensus emerged: European digital sovereignty also depends on unexpected sectors. Online gaming is now one of them.
When the financial and behavioural data of European citizens is transferred to unregulated platforms, the entire digital security of the continent is weakened.
Moving from diagnosis to action
All participants acknowledged that analyses already exist. The risks have been identified and the solutions are known: cross-border cooperation, regulatory harmonisation, coordinated action against illegal platforms and support for European innovation. But implementation remains slow.
For the European Gaming and Betting Association, which reported on the conclusions of the event, European competitiveness now depends on enhanced cooperation between Member States.