Advisory Committee for Games Set Up in France

News reports have emerged that France is working to liberalize its gaming sector. It was announced with the appointment of the Comité Consultatif des Jeux (CCJ) that the regulation of the gaming sector would continue. The CCJ is entrusted with the task of advising the French government on the ongoing regulation initiatives with respect to online gambling in France.

Infancy Stages

The French Minister of Budget said of the Advisory Committee for Games, that it was necessary to await the 2012 elections before reforms were discussed. This is in reference to the potential taxation revenue to be generated from online gaming activity.

Throughout France, both online players and gaming operators are calling for increased liberalization of the gaming sector. This would mean that reforms to the taxation laws should be enacted. The May 12th 2010 Act made provisions for such measures, but more far-reaching measures are being called for.

Slow to Move on Measures

It was expected that within 18 months of coming into effect that the reforms would show dividends. But this does not appear to be a pressing concern of the French government. The Minister of Budget has so far rejected calls for reforms following the 2012 elections. He did however allude to targeting big players in the industry - those with 10% - 15% market share as well as those operators making use of specific gaming software.

The task of the Comité Consultatif des Jeux (CCJ) is to centralize tasks, tips and coordination of gaming activity. It is possible that its former chairman, Francois Trucy would become president. French Budget Minister François Baroin already offered him the position to head this important committee.