Entain Calls for Stricter Measures Against Black Market Gaming Operators


A new report, supported by Entain and developed by Regulus Partners, outlines comprehensive strategies to tackle the growing threat posed by black market gaming operators. The research proposes targeted policy interventions to curb unlicensed operations and safeguard consumers, while also addressing the substantial tax gap created by these illegal activities.

Among the key recommendations are measures to blacklist illegal operators, restrict their marketing and payment access, and enhance criminal enforcement. These initiatives are aimed at protecting consumers and closing a tax gap estimated to reach £335 million in the UK over the next parliamentary term.

Barry Gibson, chair of Entain, emphasized the urgency of these actions at the SBC Summit in Lisbon. He highlighted the economic and regulatory risks posed by unchecked black market operators, noting that failure to act could have serious financial and consumer protection consequences.

The report demonstrates that black market participation continues to grow, even in regulated markets like the UK. In countries such as France and Germany, where bans or heavy restrictions on gambling products are in place, the black market accounts for a substantial portion of gambling revenue—45% and 60% respectively.

To combat this, the report recommends five key strategies, including blocking payments to black market operators, restricting their advertising, and using the UK’s new Online Safety Act to make access to illegal sites more difficult. It also calls for stronger criminal enforcement and the creation of a public blacklist to educate consumers on unlicensed operators.

The findings come in the wake of a Frontier Economics study, which revealed that black market operators are responsible for £4.3 billion in stakes in the UK alone, contributing to a tax shortfall of up to £67.7 million annually. Young people under 35 are disproportionately affected, representing two-thirds of black market stakes but facing fewer player protections compared to those using regulated platforms.

Entain’s call for a coordinated policy response is part of a broader effort to ensure the continued growth and integrity of the regulated gaming industry, which currently contributes £7.1 billion to the UK economy and supports 110,000 jobs.

Barry Gibson said: “Taking on the black market operators should be a key priority for policymakers around the world. It will tackle crime and raise money which could be spent on critical areas such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. It would ensure that customers get greater protection from playing with fully regulated and legitimate operators.

“This is a pivotal moment; if we go down the route of further tax increases rather than tackle the black market, it will drive even more customers towards unscrupulous operators and damage responsible, regulated businesses.”

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