Belgium: Gambling Commission bans 15 illegal sites and steps up sanctions
The Belgian Gambling Commission launched its new cycle of work with a meeting held on 18 September. This was the first gathering of the body in its new composition and served as a crucial test of its ability to ensure continuity and effectiveness in its oversight and licensing duties. On the agenda were key issues shaping the future of gambling regulation in Belgium, with a strong focus on the fight against illegal platforms.
Blacklisting fifteen unauthorised platforms
One of the most significant measures was the inclusion of fifteen illegal gambling sites on the official blacklist. This decision underscores the regulator’s determination to curb operators that evade supervision, offering services outside the legal framework and exposing players to substantial risks. By targeting these platforms, the Commission aims to strengthen consumer protection and limit practices that lack transparency and accountability.
Sanctions against non-compliant bars and newsagents
At the same time, the Commission initiated four new sanction procedures against bars and newsagents that failed to comply with current regulations. This highlights that enforcement does not only target large online operators but also smaller businesses at the local level. In an emblematic case, a penalty was imposed on a fake newsagent, an attempt to circumvent the law that the regulator decided to address with particular firmness.
Renewals and new licences
The Commission’s work extended beyond enforcement. On the licensing front, twenty-eight renewal requests were processed, ensuring continuity for businesses already operating legally. In parallel, almost sixty new applications from cafés and bookshops were examined, a clear indication of a market in constant motion. Three new licences were also granted: two to game suppliers and one to an online gambling site, all of which will now be integrated into the regulated market.
Spotlight on gaming machines
Special attention was given to the gaming machine sector. The Commission approved three new machine models, authorised testing for two new prototypes, and extended three ongoing trials. This technical work is vital to ensure compliance, maintain high safety standards and enhance efficiency. In addition, eleven cases related to player exclusion measures, including requests for revocation, were reviewed as part of the ongoing commitment to preventing gambling addiction and safeguarding vulnerable groups.
Staff support and the financial challenge
During the session, the Commission expressed its gratitude to the secretariat staff, whose preparatory work made it possible to address such a demanding agenda. Members were also presented with a first overview of the authority’s financial situation, a factor considered critical to ensuring the full implementation of its regulatory mission and reinforcing its operational capacity.
Looking ahead: legislative reform on the horizon
The newly composed body is already preparing for its next meetings, where further licence applications will be reviewed alongside a draft law currently under discussion in the Chamber. If approved, this legislation could introduce significant changes to Belgium’s regulatory framework, reshaping the responsibilities of both operators and the regulator itself.
A long-term strategy
The package of measures adopted on 18 September marks an important step towards a more comprehensive approach to gambling regulation. The Commission’s objectives remain twofold: to curb illegal practices and strengthen local-level enforcement, while at the same time supporting the growth of the regulated market. The underlying goal is to promote a safe, transparent and sustainable gambling environment. With its most recent meeting, the Belgian Gambling Commission has sent a clear signal: the new phase aims for a balance between strict control and market development, with consumer protection and system credibility firmly at the core.
This article was first published in Italian on 22 September 2025.
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