BAGO calls for action against illegality!
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2 Apr 2025 •
Reading time: 3 minutes BAGO is warning about the growing number of illegal casinos in Belgium, where 60% of online gambling traffic comes from unauthorised platforms. A study reveals that 20% of Belgian players are taking part, putting consumers and the national economy at risk. These unlicensed sites lure players with aggressive promotions, without age controls or player protection, while legal operators face increasing restrictions. Faced with this situation, BAGO is calling for the Gambling Commission to be strengthened, for illegal platforms to be blocked more quickly and for the authorities and licensed players to work together to better protect players. The association insists on the need for balanced regulation to guarantee a visible and competitive legal offer, in order to avoid an even greater drift towards the underground market.
The Belgian Association of Gaming Operators (BAGO) is sounding the alarm over the proliferation of illegal gambling platforms in Belgium. According to a recent study by Yield Sec, 60% of online gambling site traffic in the country comes from unauthorised platforms. This situation is putting Belgian consumers, jobs and national tax revenues at risk.
A survey conducted in June 2023 by Nepa on behalf of BAGO revealed that 20% of Belgian players gamble on illegal platforms. Furthermore, 70% of those surveyed recognised an illegal casino when presented with a list of brands, and 43% of players considered vulnerable admitted to having played on illegal sites in the last three months. These figures underline the scale of the problem and the need for immediate action.
The consequences for players and the Belgian economy
Unlicensed sites offer aggressive promotions without age verification, without responsible gambling tools and without paying tax. Meanwhile, regulated operators are facing increasing restrictions, making competition and consumer protection almost impossible. Players are being pushed into an unregulated, high-risk market, while Belgium loses jobs, tax revenue and its ability to protect its citizens.
BAGO’s call for coordinated action
BAGO welcomes Minister Rob Beenders’ commitment to tackling illegal gambling. However, the association believes that without bold and coordinated action, consumer protection will remain an empty promise. BAGO is therefore calling for
- A stronger Gambling Commission, with more resources and the ability to act effectively.
- Faster detection and blocking of illegal sites.
- Active collaboration between the government, the regulator and licensed operators to protect and educate consumers.
Emmanuel Mewissen, Vice-Chairman of BAGO, emphasises: “It is not enough to create a safe and legal gaming environment. Players must also be able to find their way around. Already today, 1 in 5 Belgians plays on the illegal circuit. Tomorrow, it could be 2 out of 5.”
BAGO is ready to support balanced, modern policies that genuinely protect Belgian consumers. The association insists on the need to recognise licensed Belgian operators as key players in a rapidly changing digital landscape. Fair visibility and a minimum competitive offer are essential to guarantee a safe and controlled gaming environment for players.