BGC Cautions Against False Illegal Gambling Narrative

BGC Says the Illegal Market Is a Growing Risk

The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has answered claims that it has overstated illegal gambling. The comments came from a new opinion article written by BGC Chief Executive Grainne Hurst. The article appeared in PoliticsHome and looked at the UK's growing illegal gambling market. Hurst said the debate should change and focus on a different question.

Instead of arguing about the size of the problem, she said policymakers should ask how licensed casinos can keep more players. She believes this would better protect customers. The BGC also said every player using an illegal website increases the risk of harm. It believes the issue deserves more attention from the government.

BGC Shares New Market Estimates

The BGC estimates the UK's illegal gambling market will reach £17 billion during 2025. It believes the market could grow to £33 billion by 2028. If that happens, one in five bets could be placed with unlicensed operators. That would be a major change for the UK gambling market.

The trade group says many offshore casinos accept UK players without holding a British licence. Those businesses work outside UK gambling rules. Hurst said protecting players means taking stronger action against those illegal businesses — not ignoring them.

Nevertheless, some critics say the BGC has made the problem sound bigger than it is. The trade group rejected those claims.

Why the BGC Wants a New Approach

The BGC says tougher rules alone may not stop illegal gambling. Some players could simply move to unlicensed websites instead. The group said many people keep gambling even after new limits are introduced. They often look for other places to play.

According to the BGC, illegal casinos often fail to offer important safety measures, including:

• No access to GAMSTOP self-exclusion.

• Poor or missing age checks.

• Weak anti-money laundering controls.

• Fewer protections for players.

Beyond that, the BGC believes major sports events may bring more illegal gambling activity. The 2026 FIFA World Cup could increase that risk.

Trade Group Calls for More Action

The BGC welcomed the government's Illegal Gambling Taskforce and called it a good first step. However, it said more action is still needed. Earlier this month, the group published a five-step plan to fight illegal gambling. The proposals aim to reduce the black market while helping licensed casinos stay competitive.

Hence, the BGC says future gambling policy should keep more players in the regulated market. It believes that approach offers better protection — and makes it harder for illegal operators to grow.