Three EU countries tighten gambling oversight this week

Three European countries announced gambling oversight measures this week. France, the Netherlands and Belgium are examples of the clear regulatory direction taking place across Europe.

In France, there are new frameworks targeting digital gaming mechanics. The Netherlands are bringing in enforcement action against an unlicensed platform. Belgium is strengthening the duty-of-care rules.

Though all of these developments are separate, they point to the same conclusion. European authorities are tightening supervision. They are making sure to close grey areas and raise compliance expectations for licensed operators.

France formalises digital gaming framework

In France, the Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ) has operationalised a new regime. This is for so-called “monetisable digital object games” (referred to by the acronym JONUM).

The framework is designed to regulate digital games that incorporate mechanics resembling gambling. This is particularly in games where virtual objects can be bought, sold or exchanged for value. French policymakers want to clarify the distinction between regulated gambling and other digital entertainment formats. This includes certain tokenised or blockchain-based systems.

"Any legal entity intending to offer the public a game with monetizable digital items must declare it in advance to the National Gaming Authority and provide the required information regarding the legal entity, the game offer and its marketing, and the technologies used." - Article 6

The ANJ said the regime will impose transparency requirements, consumer safeguards and responsible commercial standards. It aims to prevent gambling-style products from operating in regulatory grey areas. This makes France one of the first major EU markets to formally address this segment.

Netherlands cracks down on unlicensed platform

In the Netherlands, the Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) has ordered prediction market platform Polymarket to stop offering services to Dutch users.

The platform was accessible in the Netherlands without the required licence under the Betting and Gaming Act. The regulator warned that substantial financial penalties could follow if the platform fails to comply.

The action forms part of the KSA’s continued focus on illegal and offshore operators targeting Dutch consumers. The authority has repeatedly stressed that unlicensed platforms undermine consumer protection standards. They are also distorting fair competition within the regulated market.

Belgium strengthens Duty of Care code

In Belgium, the Belgian Gaming Commission has introduced a renewed Duty of Care code for licensed operators.

The updated code is more proactive on player monitoring, earlier intervention and clearer responsible gambling protocols. Operators are expected to enhance behavioural tracking systems and take action where signs of harm become apparent.

Belgium is already one of Europe’s stricter regulatory environments. The latest changes reinforce its long-standing emphasis on player protection and operator accountability.

A coordinated tightening across Europe

Although the measures were announced independently, the timing of them is indicative of the broader European trend underway. Regulators used to focus heavily and predominantly on licensing. Now, they’re also looking at frameworks, closing loopholes and testing enforcement powers.

When operators are working in several jurisdictions, it can be increasingly complex to understand compliance. Expectations are higher. Advertising, taxation, product design, platform access and proactive harm prevention all matter more than they ever have.

This week’s developments in France, the Netherlands and Belgium show us a clear message about the direction EU regulation is heading.