What Does the Casino Industry Look Like in Germany After the Regulation?
On July 1st 2021, the German “Glücksspielstaatsvertrag” (InterState Treaty on Gambling or ISTG 2021) was officially enforced. Online gambling is now legal in Germany. Any provider meeting legal requirements and having a state permit can take part in the market.
Before the passing of the Treaty, German law strongly prohibited gambling in its traditional form. The old Treaty was declared unconstitutional by the Administrative Court of Kassel in October 2015. European Court also classified some aspects of it as unconstitutional.
The new Treaty allows gambling in Germany, but the rules are still strict. The government still puts the emphasis on preventing addiction and black-market activities.
The Treaty will limit players and establishments in the German casino industry. Each licensed establishment must make a safety deposit of €5 million. Providers need a permit issued by the federal state. Players have a deposit limit of 1,000€ per month. Slots must have maximum bet capacity of€1 and spin for a minimum of 5 seconds per spin.
The Casino industry in Germany is regulated. Each licensed establishment must make a safety deposit of €5 million. Players have a deposit limit of 1,000€ per month. Slots have maximum bet capacity of€1 and spin for a minimum of 5 seconds per spin.
The German market is now officially opened. Conditions for providers are stringent. The regulations may not solve the black market issue.