The Hellenic Gaming Association (HGA) has released an open letter addressed to key government officials, including ministers, general secretaries, prosecutors, heads of independent authorities, and the Hellenic Police, requesting more stringent control over the black market in Greece. The letter articulates the crucial role of licensed online gambling providers in the Greek market, stressing their contributions to the economy while raising concerns about the illegal gaming sector that continues to thrive unchecked.

The rise of illegal gambling

The HGA warns of a rising illegal gambling market, citing a recent study by KapaResearch, which found that the illegal gambling sector in Greece has risen to an estimated €1.7 billion in 2023. Alarmingly, the report reveals that 10 percent of participants in illegal gambling activities are aged between 17 and 21, despite legal online gambling only being permitted for those over 21 in Greece.

“Approximately 900,000 individuals engaged in illegal gambling activities, with 76 percent playing regularly on unauthorised platforms,” explained the trade association. This situation is aggravated by the proliferation of new websites targeting the Greek audience, many of which operate under the .gr domain and advertise in Greek.

A call for legislative reform

In response to these issues, the HGA urges the government to take decisive action. “The continuous illegal operation of unlicensed websites fosters an unfair competitive environment, resulting in significant capital flight towards these platforms,” the letter states. The association believes that effective regulation and enforcement can mitigate this issue.

To support its claims, the HGA stresses the importance of revamping and improving the existing legal framework governing gambling. “It is essential to upgrade the current legislative framework for gambling to ensure that the Hellenic Gaming Commission (EEEP) plays a central role in fighting illegal activities,” the letter asserts. The HGA advocates for better coordination among various stakeholders, including law enforcement, tax authorities, payment service providers, and internet service providers, to effectively curb illegal gambling.

A proactive stance

Furthermore, the HGA has announced its intention to take matters into its own hands through a series of measures. “Starting 14 October 2024, we will send notices to relevant authorities regarding illegal content identified through our investigations,” the letter reveals. This should enable governmental bodies to quickly address illegal activities and implement administrative and criminal sanctions as needed, the HGA hopes.

The association has also taken legal steps against various cases that have arisen within the Greek market. “We will continue to pursue legal action against similar instances to protect the interests of our members and the integrity of the market,” the HGA explains.

The contribution of licensed gaming to the Greek economy

The trade association states that the online gambling market, regulated under licences issued since 21 August 2021, plays a significant role in the Greek economy. The association presents compelling figures to illustrate this point: for the year 2023, the total gaming revenue (TGR) stands at €27 billion, with player payouts amounting to €16 billion. The gross gaming revenue (GGR) reaches €867 million, generating €525 million in public revenue.

The HGA also outlines the financial commitments made by these operators, “Currently, there are 19 licensed online gambling providers, each contributing a total of €80 million to the Greek state for a seven-year licence.” This financial input is critical for the national budget, particularly in a sector that has become heavily taxed. “The Greek gaming market is now the most heavily taxed compared to similar international markets, with a 35 percent tax on gross profits, leading to an overall tax burden that reaches nearly 60 percent,” notes the HGA.

By addressing the illegal gambling market, the HGA believes that the integrity of the Greek gaming landscape can be maintained, ensuring that it remains a thriving and protected sector of the economy.

Unlock winning moments: Discover the best odds on?SiGMA Play.