New gambling reform: What’s changing

Since 1 September 2024, the gambling landscape in Belgium has been modified by the entry into force of the law of 18 February 2024. This reform, the result of several years of discussions and analyses, aims to strengthen the protection of players and better regulate this constantly evolving sector.

Better protection of players

One of the main innovations of this law lies in the strengthening of measures to protect the most vulnerable players. Thus:

• The minimum age for gambling has been raised to 21. This measure aims to limit access to gambling for young people, who are often considered particularly vulnerable to addictions.
• Bonuses, gifts and free games are now prohibited. These practices, often used to attract players, are considered to be increased risk factors for developing an addiction.
• Advertising for gambling is strictly regulated. Only cases expressly authorized by the King, by decree deliberated in the Council of Ministers, may be an exception to this general ban.

Stricter regulation of operators

The new law also imposes stricter constraints on gambling operators:

• Prohibition of the accumulation of online licenses on the same website. This measure aims to limit market concentration and promote healthier competition.
• Ban on “3.3” machines. These machines, often criticized for their addictive nature, are disappearing from the Belgian landscape.
• Strengthening of controls on the identity of players. Operators will now have to verify the age of their customers. If the verification has not been done correctly, they will be required to reimburse the bets to the players.