MEP Agius warns online ad bans could expand illegal gambling in Europe
MEP Peter Agius raised concerns at the European Parliament during consideration of a petition seeking a ban on online gambling advertising. He said a broad prohibition could drive consumers towards unregulated operators, citing estimates that the black market accounts for about 70% of gambling in some member states and that 66% of illegal gambling activity is linked to addiction problems.
The debate may shape advertising rules affecting licensed operators and the risk of consumers moving to illegal gambling services.