The Commission des Jeux de Hasard (CJH), Belgium’s esteemed regulator, formally published substantial amendments on May 22, emphasizing its ongoing commitment to refining the country’s gaming landscape. These pivotal updates, aimed at enhancing regulatory compliance, are set to be officially implemented starting June 1, 2024, marking a significant milestone in Belgium’s gaming sector. This strategic move underscores CJH’s resolve in ensuring a fair and secure gaming environment.
Annual meetings to enhance player protection announced
In a significant move to bolster player protection, the Commission on Gambling and Horseracing (CJH) has introduced new regulations requiring annual discussions with licence holders. These discussions aim to review and improve safety measures for players, ensuring a secure and responsible gaming environment. Furthermore, the CJH is obligated to incorporate an update on these critical meetings in its yearly report, reflecting the ongoing commitment to upholding the highest standards of player protection.
In the latest legal compliance update, significant modifications have been enacted to bolster player protection within the gambling sector. Foremost among these changes is the amendment to the gambling age requirement, which has been officially elevated from 18 to 21 years old. This pivotal shift aims to create a more responsible gambling environment and reduce the risk of underage gambling. The term ‘minors’ has been meticulously replaced with ’21 years’ in legal documentation to align with this new age threshold.
To enforce these crucial changes, the Commission for Gambling Regulation (CJR) has been tasked with implementing stringent oversight. Entities found in breach of regulations concerning the engagement of individuals under the age of 21 will be subjected to formal warnings. This measure underscores the commission’s commitment to ensuring that gambling operators adhere strictly to the updated legal frameworks.
Summary of key legal compliance changes
- Minimum gambling age increased to 21 from 18;
- Comprehensive update of terminology replacing ‘minors’ with ’21 years’;
- Enhanced enforcement measures including warnings for non-compliance;
In belgium, significant amendments to the gambling laws are scheduled to be implemented in september 2024, targeting a more stringent regulatory framework. the legal reforms will elevate the minimum gambling age to 21, underscoring the government’s commitment to fostering responsible gaming and protecting young adults from the potential harms of gambling. additionally, these changes will introduce a sweeping ban on all forms of gambling advertising.
This move aligns with the recent recommendations by the Belgian expertise centre, aiming to curb the influence of gambling advertisements on citizens, especially the youth.
