GOOD PROSPECTS IN FRANCE?
Media reports that a breakthrough may be possible for online gambling
Could the French monopolistic approach to gambling be on the verge of positive change? The French press seemed to think so this week in reporting that the Sarkozy administration plans to liberalise the French online gambling scene by implementing a more open and competitive regulatory regime.
France has already been in detailed talks with European Commission officials about its protectionist policies (see previous InfoPowa reports), and has been the recipient of warnings from that EU enforcement body. The change in presidency could be the catalyst for real change, bringing France into compliance with European Union requirements for the free passage of trade and services between EU member nations.
Although the European Commission has not commented on the media reports, Patrick Partouche, head of the Partouche casino group, welcomed the news, although he cautioned that the legislation could take some time to be enacted, as it was likely that the French monopoly Francaise des Jeux would attempt to delay the move for as long as possible.