The l’Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ) has evaluated annual action plans submitted by licensed gambling operators. As a result, the regulator concluded that additional work would be required for France to achieve its goal of reducing the number of excessive gamblers by 2027. This objective forms the core of the ANJ strategy for the years 2024-2026.
Based on the statistics cited by the ANJ, the number of problematic gamblers in France in 2024 amounted to about 1.17 million, out of which 360,000 were excessive gamblers. Moreover, based on the older market stats, 38.3% of gross gaming revenue in 2019 was attributed to problem gambling and, particularly, 20.7% to excessive gambling.
Where Operators Have Improved
The most significant improvements were achieved in the online area. The ANJ says that the number of excessive users identified by the operators grew from 31,000 in 2024 to 89,000 in 2025 due to modifications in detection systems and new indicators. Additionally, the majority of licensed operators took some measures to avoid underage access to their sites.
Regarding land-based gambling establishments, there were advances made in the training of staff and collaboration with addiction management services. Over 2,200 people have already completed the online prevention program of ANJ, which became operational in November 2024. However, the regulator noted that most venues still identify too few excessive players relative to their level of attendance.
Why Minors Remain the Main Warning Sign
Gambling among minors continues to be one of the most prevalent issues. The ANJ-backed study revealed that 42.6% of young French people between the ages of 15 and 17 gambled in the year 2025. That marks almost an eight-point increase when compared to 2021. Further, it was apparent from the study itself that minors often accessed gambling through their parents (whether in retail outlets, via a parent’s online account, or with parental help in account creation).
The tougher stance can also be attributed to a broader trend in the country’s policies. In the past few months, the ANJ has issued warnings regarding the existence of prediction market platforms like Polymarket, which it claims is illegal in France. Moreover, the ANJ has called on all actors to moderate advertising pressure during major sports events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Conclusion
The message being sent by France is that mere compliance will not suffice anymore. It seems that the regulator is moving towards a more outcome-focused approach. Under this approach, operators are evaluated on how well they have reduced the number of minors, detected harmful gaming, and intervened credibly in large numbers.
