In 1999, Belgium enact the Betting and Gaming Act. At that point, a new industry developed that similarly to other countries, offered increased tax revenue.
This was mainly due to international bookmakers entering the local market. This was helped from the country’s regulations that were highly favorable to those foreign operators.
Lately, the Belgian government has decided to propose new measures that will create a new legal frame, that will further change how gambling is regulated.
Online advertising
This is the first and perhaps the most significant development. The Parliamentary Chamber of Representatives and the authorities are proposing to stop all ads visible on live sports events streams. According to the new regulation, online bookmakers will be restricted to promoting their products only through email newsletters and proprietary websites.
Minimum age: From 18 up to 21 years old
The Christian Democratic and Flemish Party made a proposition on raising the minimum online gambling age. Nowadays this stands at 18 years old and if the bill is voted it will go up to 21.
There are social concerns about online gambling, as it feared it is highly addictive to young people. The Government wants people who play online, to be more mature before taking such decisions.
The government hopes they can pass these stricter regulations that will allegedly help and protect the Belgian citizens.