A new study by the Belgian Association of Licensed Gaming Operators (BAGO) reveals that around 25% of gamblers in Belgium are turning to unlicensed online platforms. These illegal sites operate beyond the reach of national regulation, drawing users away from the legal market and stripping them of essential protections.
The findings raise concerns not just for the industry, but for public safety. Without deposit limits, proper age verification, or integration with the country’s self-exclusion system (EPIS), these platforms put users—especially the vulnerable—at greater risk.
EPIS, run by the Belgian Gaming Commission since 2004, blocks self-excluded individuals from gambling legally. But nearly half—47%—of these users are still gambling through unregulated sites, highlighting a major enforcement gap.
Young Adults Driving Illegal Gambling Surge
The situation is especially dire among 18 to 21-year-olds. Before Belgium raised the legal gambling age in September 2024, nearly half of young men in this group admitted to using unlicensed platforms. Since the change, that number has jumped to 65%.
Illegal operators also dominate brand awareness among this demographic. While only 4% of the general gambling population could name an unlicensed site, nearly 30% of young men listed one as their top brand. Even more striking, 85% of 18–21-year-olds recognize an illegal gambling provider, compared to just 15% who can name a legal one.
Social media and sports sponsorships are playing a major role in this shift. Among young respondents, 31% said they discovered these platforms via social channels, and 26% through sports-related ads.
BAGO Calls for Action Before Market Control Is Lost
BAGO leadership is sounding the alarm. Chairman Tom De Clercq warned, “We are on a slippery slope. Illegal platforms are free to operate without rules or oversight. If this continues, Belgium could lose control of its gambling market.”
He pointed to the Duty of Care charter signed by legal operators in November 2023 as an example of the efforts licensed providers are making to protect consumers. In contrast, illegal sites offer no such safeguards.
Vice-chairman Emmanuel Mewissen backed stronger regulatory powers, saying BAGO fully supports the coalition agreement that would equip the Gaming Commission to act more decisively. “Only with proper tools can the regulator crack down on these illegal providers, protect consumers, and preserve a functioning legal market,” he said.
As unlicensed gambling continues to gain ground—particularly among youth—BAGO is urging immediate action to prevent further erosion of oversight and consumer protection.
