SectorWire
SearchGet the daily briefing
Menu

German government drug commissioner calls for stronger action against illegal gambling

Regulation

Germany’s government drug commissioner Hendrik Streeck called for authorities to strengthen action against illegal gambling, according to the statement. He said enforcement should improve while legal gambling retains its protective standards. Industry representatives argued that illegal operators undermine licensed businesses, while an SPD lawmaker warned that making legal gambling more attractive could expand the overall market.

The debate affects enforcement priorities and the regulatory standards facing legal gambling businesses in Germany.

Request a correction

Keep reading

Regulation

Lotto Hessen calls for effective action against illegal online gambling in Germany

Lotto Hessen management spokesperson Martin Blach said Germany needs consistent enforcement against illegal gambling, in an interview. He said the GGL estimates the online black market at around 23%, while other studies put it above 50%. Investigators suspect five people offered online gambling commercially and as a group from July 2021; stakes for July 2021 to the end of 2023 allegedly totalled €5.8bn.

Martin Blach, spokesperson for the management of Lotto Hessen, said Germany needs consistent enforcement against illegal gambling, in an interview with games & business reported on 16 October 2026. Blach said a state treaty on gambling is of little use if the state does not act against illegal play, according to the report.

Continue reading