Navigating New Frontiers: iGaming Regulations in 2025

The iGaming industry will experience transformative changes in 2025 as several countries move to regulate this lucrative and fast-evolving sector. Governments worldwide recognise the need for robust legal frameworks to balance economic benefits, consumer protection, and responsible gambling practices.

Below, we explore the key aspects of upcoming regulations in France, Thailand, Brazil, Italy, and Switzerland & Liechtenstein, their implementation timelines, and their anticipated impact on the industry.

France: Expanding a Mature Market

Regulation Timeline:

Expected by the end of 2025

Key Aspects:

• France’s government has initiated a six-month consultation to assess the feasibility of legalising online casinos.
   
• The proposed framework aims to expand the country’s already regulated iGaming market, which includes sports betting and poker.

Industry Impact:

The inclusion of online casinos will align France with other mature iGaming markets. This move will open new revenue streams and ensure better consumer protections against unregulated operators.

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Thailand: Turning the Tide on Unregulated Gambling

Regulation Timeline:

Mid-to-late 2025

Key Aspects:

• Thailand is exploring the legalisation and regulation of iGaming to address a thriving underground market.
   
• The government seeks to capitalise on potential economic benefits while establishing consumer protections and mitigating social harms.

Industry Impact:

Thailand’s decision to regulate could significantly reduce the prevalence of illegal platforms and create a structured ecosystem that benefits both the government and consumers. The move may also attract international operators keen on entering this untapped market.

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Brazil: Comprehensive Regulatory Overhaul

Regulation Timeline:

Active as of 2025

Key Aspects:

• Brazil’s regulations will focus on taxation, advertising restrictions, and the prohibition of using credit cards for gambling.
   
• Measures include stronger protections for vulnerable populations and enhanced monitoring of operators.

Industry Impact:

With one of the fastest-growing online betting markets, Brazil’s regulatory approach will formalise operations, increasing transparency and tax revenue. However, restrictions on credit card usage could challenge smaller operators while benefiting larger, established entities.

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Italy: Structured Licensing and Compliance

Regulation Timeline:

Active as of 2025

Key Aspects:

• New regulations require iGaming applicants to have prior operational experience within Europe and headquarters in the European Economic Area.
   
• Licensing fees are expected to generate €350 million, with annual revenues projected at €100 million.

Industry Impact:

Italy’s stringent licensing criteria will likely reduce market saturation, ensuring only credible operators enter. This will foster a more controlled environment but could deter smaller operators without prior European experience.

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Switzerland & Liechtenstein: Cross-Border Collaboration

Regulation Timeline:

January 7, 2025

Key Aspects:

• A bilateral agreement bans individuals barred from gambling in one country from accessing services in the other.
   
• Enhanced protections focus on reducing iGaming addiction through cross-border cooperation.

Industry Impact:

This unique agreement strengthens consumer protections and sets a precedent for regional collaborations. Operators must adapt to stricter monitoring requirements, fostering a safer iGaming environment.

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Global Trends and Industry Implications

The evolving regulatory landscape marks a significant shift in the dynamics of the iGaming industry. As countries like France, Thailand, and Brazil implement new frameworks, the industry is moving away from unregulated, fragmented operations toward a more structured and accountable ecosystem. This transformation brings several benefits:

• Increased Consumer Trust: Clear regulations foster confidence among players, ensuring safer and more transparent iGaming experiences.
   
• Market Stability: With standardized guidelines, operators can compete on a level playing field, reducing market volatility and fostering long-term growth.
   
• Government Revenue: Taxation and licensing fees provide significant economic benefits, enabling governments to reinvest in public services and gambling addiction programs.
   
• Global Opportunities: Regulation paves the way for cross-border partnerships and market expansion, opening doors for innovation and collaboration.

As these changes take hold, operators must adapt to the new normal by prioritizing compliance, embracing innovation, and delivering value to consumers within the bounds of these regulations. The result will be a more sustainable, fair, and prosperous iGaming industry in 2025 and beyond.