BAGO explains the little-known world of gambling
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18 Mar 2026 •
Reading time: 3 minutes
The BAGO association, which represents the main legal gambling operators, champions its vision of a fully-fledged industry at the crossroads of economic, social and political issues.
A regulated and structured sector
Today, gambling is no longer simply a marginal activity. It now constitutes a fully-fledged industry, structured, regulated and value-generating. One of the key elements that distinguishes the Belgian sector is its level of regulation.
Since the Act of 7 May 1999, gaming establishments have been classified into four categories: casinos, slot machine halls, licensed premises and betting agencies. This classification is based on specific criteria, such as the type of games offered, the amounts wagered and the potential winnings. This system prevents market deregulation and ensures strict control over activities.
Another distinctive feature is the limited number of licences. In Belgium, only nine casinos are authorised, whilst the number of gaming halls is capped at 180 establishments. This mechanism creates a controlled market, far removed from a system of total free competition.
A significant contribution to the Belgian economy
The private gambling sector in Belgium directly employs over 2,600 people. However, this figure reflects only part of the actual impact. When indirect jobs are included – subcontractors, developers, technicians, and communications agencies – a further 10,000 jobs depend on this industry.
Gambling plays an active role in the national economy. The sector contributes to the public purse, supports cultural projects and forms part of the wider economic fabric.
The figures bear witness to this importance. A large majority of Belgian players turn to legal operators, evidence of a certain level of trust in the regulated system.
Whilst the legal sector is regulated, a significant proportion of the activity still falls outside the rules. Around 20% of players use illegal sites. These platforms pose serious problems: lack of oversight, no guarantee of payment, and no age verification. These risks undermine not only the players but also the sector’s economic stability.
The shift to the FPS Economy
The transfer of the GC from the Federal Public Service (FPS) Justice to the FPS Economy marks a major shift in the way the Belgian State approaches this sector. Long associated with the judicial sphere, gambling is now changing status: it is no longer regarded solely as a matter of public order, but as an economic activity in its own right, and BAGO welcomes this change.
This change was formalised in October 2025, when the Council of Ministers approved a draft bill aimed at transferring responsibility for gambling to the Minister for the Economy. This decision was confirmed at second reading in December of the same year, signalling the political will to accelerate this transition.
This transfer is seen as an opportunity. For several years, the GC has faced structural difficulties, particularly regarding recruitment and operations. Its affiliation with the Federal Public Service Justice, which is already under significant strain, limits its ability to evolve rapidly. According to several industry stakeholders, this reform could enable a thorough modernisation of the regulator, both in terms of resources and organisation.
Ultimately, this reform reflects a profound shift in the way the public authorities view gambling.