France Gambling Policy in Court

After signs of optimism, though mixed with skepticism by some business analysts, regarding the possible opening up of the French online gambling market, reassurances come from the highest offices in France's government. French budget minister Eric Woerth said in an interview to AFP that the government is not against a regulated online gaming industry.

While the European Union member countries are battling the United States in the World Trade Organization courts over the unfair trade practices regarding online gambling, they are also concerned about the independent French policy, denying free trade as it operates a state-run gaming monopoly. The EU Court of Justice granted the independent-minded, contrarian country until October 29 to change its laws.

In his positive and reassuring remarks, Woerth allowed for a possibility that the laws will be revised so as to grant private online gaming operators to cater to French Citizens, though he said this will be regulated and monitored so that not just any operator would be allowed to do so.

Perhaps the EU's request of $100 billion in compensation from the US over its unfair trade policy has alarmed the French. But it should be noted that the French have never been all out against online gambling. In fact, the country has never technically banned its citizens from taking part in such activities, though it has outlawed licensing of gambling companies.

In the upcoming talks involving the French government, its gambling monopolies, the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) and Betfair among others, France will probably raise their condition to have any gambling company have to establish a branch in France to receive legal status.

It is agreed on all sides that dialogue is an encouraging, positive development. The difference, however, are considerable. Would France follow in the US steps, perhaps adopt the Norwegian policy, which tends to follow the American ban it is so believed, or join the EU and the English leadership in regulating the industry, is left to be seen. The deadline, as mentioned, is the end of this month.