Gaming in Germany conference in Berlin: regulation or digital chaos?
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24 Sep 2025 •
Reading time: 3 minutes On 11 November 2025, Berlin will become the rallying point for major players in iGaming: regulators, lawyers, operators and experts will gather at the Gaming in Germany Conference to discuss the regulatory framework for online gambling in Germany and the challenges posed by the black market.
A conference born out of urgent need
With the 2021 Interstate Treaty, Germany has been trying for several years to strike a balance: to authorise and secure online gambling while minimising illegal practices. But despite this treaty, crucial questions remain unanswered. The black market continues to pose a real threat that is difficult to control.
How has the 2021 law actually improved player protection? The stated objective was to clarify the rules, impose a uniform licence, ensure control and make platforms accountable. However, several stakeholders consider that the system is struggling to respond effectively to abuse, circumvention or illegal activities.
Who will be speaking, and on what topics?
The event will begin with a speech by a senior official from the GGL (the German gambling regulator), followed by discussions between lawyers and industry leaders:
- Dr Joerg Hofmann, from the Melchers law firm, will provide expert legal insight.
- Mathias Dahms, President of the Deutscher Sportwettenverband (DSWV), and Dr Dirk Quermann, President of the Deutscher Online Casinoverband (DOCV), will talk about sports betting and online slot machines.
The focus will then shift to the issue of the unregulated market. Josh Hodgson, COO of H2 Gambling Capital, will present the latest economic data on the size of the iGaming market in Germany. Christian Heins of Tipico will explain how operators are responding to illegal offers, while Dr Andreas Ditsche (iGaming.com) will discuss the role of affiliates and technology platforms in spreading or curbing these activities.
The 2021 treaty under the microscope: review and outlook
The 2021 State Gambling Treaty forms the backbone of the current legal regime. Its aims include clarification, player protection, anti-money laundering and licensing transparency. But beyond the intentions, speakers want to assess whether the results are up to scratch.
During the sessions, Alex Green from ZEAL Network and Maarten Haijer from the EGBA (European Gaming and Betting Association) will analyse the concrete impact of the treaty on operators and the public. Birgitte Sand, a former Danish regulator, will also be in attendance to offer an international perspective and contribute to a session on what the industry calls a wish list for future reforms.
These will not be mere theoretical debates. Practical workshops will be offered to help operators improve their daily procedures. Topics will include regulatory compliance, data protection, payment solutions, and Know-Your-Customer (KYC) processes. In other words, the technical and logistical workings of the sector will be examined to identify weaknesses and strengthen them.
Upstream: the webinar on 7 October
Ahead of the November gathering, a webinar is scheduled for 7 October at 3 p.m. CET. This preparatory session will focus on the latest regulatory developments, market statistics and challenges related to the black market. Joerg Hofmann will provide the latest legal information, while Josh Hodgson will offer an economic perspective based on recent figures. This will be an opportunity for participants to get up to speed and prepare more targeted interventions.
The Gaming in Germany Conference is shaping up to be a key moment for the industry and public authorities. It will not only bring together stakeholders, but also assess, debate and potentially chart a new course for better regulating, protecting and securing the world of online gaming in Germany.