French regulator debuts flexible player protection framework

French gambling regulator ANJ has launched a new market-wide player protection framework targeting problem gambling and good practice by operators.

The framework, which is flexible and will be regularly evaluated and changed, aims to put in place a comprehensive regulatory agenda of clearly defined responsibilities which is publicly visible.

ANJ regulators have said the document will serve as a reference guide for France’s legal framework and as a best-practice tool to improve operator conduct.

The reference framework applies to all gambling operators, including those under exclusive rights, online gaming operators, horse racing companies and French casino operators.

It includes requirements for operators to submit two action plans a year to the ANJ.

One should outline the operator’s work in preventing problem gambling, while the other is a detailed plan outlining their marketing strategy.

In the case of marketing strategy, all methods of advertising used must be documented alongside an evaluation of their respective impact on problem gambling.

If marketing strategy is modified, operators must provide the ANJ with two months’ notice and a new evaluation form.

Online gambling operators must submit these plans every year on 30 November to the ANJ.

“The reference framework is part of a gradual and flexible compliance process fueled by regular dialogue between the regulator and players in the sector,” the ANJ said.

“Its content and its methods of implementation will be periodically evaluated and may be adjusted, if necessary, as provided for under French law,” the regulator added.

It includes a so-called meeting clause, which provides for an initial assessment of the implementation of this framework by each French-licensed operator one year after its entry into force.

The ANJ has estimated the number of problem gamblers in France to be as high as 370,000.