The European Union has been very progressive when it comes to online casinos.  Not every nation has legalized online casinos in the Union, but the ones that have not are feeling the pressure.  There are some countries that have legalized online casinos and online gambling, but have kept the industry locked in a position where the only option that patrons have is to utilize a state run operator.

The French used to be that type of country, but recently a bill passed with the intention of opening up the French online casino market to outside companies.  While this bill is a huge step forward for France and a huge step away from their monopoly over online casinos, the bill is not exactly satisfying to everyone.

“In its current form, the planned French legislation will simply not be viable for the vast majority of private sector operators and France will miss out on the opportunity to share in the growth and associated benefits of having its own thriving, regulated online gambling industry,” said Clive Hawkswood, Remote Gambling Association Chief Executive. 

There is a lot of concern that although the French is actually opening up its online gambling market that the bill makes the market inhospitable and unattractive to companies outside of France.  This almost completely defeats the purpose of allowing outside companies to compete, but it is enough to get the European Union off of their back.  The European Gaming and Betting Association, specifically, believes the bill leaves several financial issues unaddressed.