ANJ Enforces New Regulations on FDJ for 2026 as Part of Responsible Gambling Initiative
In a proactive move to tackle gambling-related issues, the Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ) has placed restrictions on the La Française des Jeux (FDJ) regarding its offerings for the year 2026. This decision includes limiting the number of new game launches and mandating modifications to certain scratchcard games deemed to promote excessive gambling.
As part of its annual review, ANJ scrutinizes the gaming and betting programs of operators like FDJ and Pari Mutuel Urbain (PMU). Both entities hold exclusive rights to various online gaming services, including lotteries, in France. This year’s approval process also emphasizes responsible gambling and aims to mitigate risks associated with excessive gambling behaviors.
Recent data from the Canadian Problem Gambling Index, provided by FDJ, highlighted an unsettling rise in the number of individuals engaging in problematic gambling—an increase noted after years of relative stability. In response, ANJ has approved FDJ’s gaming plans while instituting several conditions designed to foster safer gambling practices.
One of the critical directives involves ensuring that marketing does not promote misleading statements, such as claiming "the best chance of winning." This regulation aligns with ANJ’s broader goal of minimizing gambling revenue derived from individuals exhibiting problematic behaviors.
Particularly concerning were FDJ’s online scratchcard games. ANJ has mandated the removal or revision of titles associated with the highest gambling risks. This initiative reflects a commitment to ensuring that players are protected from the potential harms of excessive gambling.
Restrictions on New Game Launches
The ANJ’s oversight extends to controlling the expansion of FDJ’s game portfolio. A proposal to broaden the gameplay options for FDJ’s Amigo game was denied, reinforcing the decision to maintain the current freeze on draw-based games imposed in the previous year. Additionally, changes will need to be made to the revenue-sharing model for FDJ’s BingoLive, aimed at reducing the income derived from high-risk gamblers.
Moreover, FDJ will face limitations regarding new physical scratchcard releases, with only three new or redeployed €3 games and a maximum of two €5 launches permitted for 2026. There’s also a cap on the total number of €5 games, which cannot exceed nine across both online and retail platforms. For online-exclusive games, ANJ has asked FDJ to streamline its offerings in the €2, €3, and €5 categories.
Regulatory Penalties for Data Mismanagement
In a different but equally significant development, the ANJ recently imposed a €75,000 fine on an unnamed operator for failing to comply with data archiving regulations. The operator neglected to keep essential records accessible for a substantial 25-month period from 2022 to 2024.
ANJ mandates that all licensed operators must archive customer gaming data in real time, which must be readily available for regulatory oversight. The infractions included the failure to provide critical data related to player bets, resulting in millions of euros in excluded records. In another instance, over 900,000 erroneous entries were reported, emphasizing the crucial nature of accurate data for player monitoring.
ANJ highlighted that effective oversight is hindered by such data management failures, as they can significantly impact the ability to track player return rates and identify at-risk individuals. Thus, the imposed fine serves as a reminder of the importance of compliance in safeguarding the integrity of the gambling sector.
In conclusion, the ANJ is taking firm steps to ensure that both FDJ and other operators maintain responsible gambling practices amid growing concerns over gambling-related issues. These regulations not only aim to protect players but also reinforce the accountability of gaming companies within France’s gaming landscape.