ECA: Illegal EU Gambling Market Hit €91.6B in 2025

Illegal gambling market keeps growing

On July 3, the European Casino Association (ECA) presented new research at a roundtable at the European Parliament. The meeting was dedicated to the issue of the spread of illegal online gambling in the European Union. The discussion was attended by lawmakers, regulators, industry groups and European agencies. They looked at the size of the illegal market and possible ways to stop its growth.

The figures were the first outcomes of the Gambling Compliance International (GCI) annual study on the gambling landscape. The illegal online gambling market targeting players in the EU is valued at €91.6 billion in 2025, according to the report. This was 14% higher than the previous year! It also estimated that, during the year, EU countries lost €22.9 billion in tax revenue.

Thousands of illegal casinos target European players

The study found that more than 6,200 illegal operators target players across Europe. It also said most online gambling money from EU players now goes to illegal casinos. In addition, much of the gambling content seen online by European users promotes unlicensed casinos instead of licensed ones.

The report highlighted several key points:

• Illegal market reached €91.6 billion in 2025.

• EU countries lost about €22.9 billion in taxes.

• More than 6,200 illegal operators targeted players.

• Much online gambling content promoted illegal casinos.

Many of these operators appear to work outside the European Union — making enforcement harder for national regulators. The ECA said these casinos do not protect players and do not pay taxes in the countries they target.

ECA wants stronger action across Europe

The association said no country can solve this issue alone. It believes stronger teamwork across Europe is needed. The ECA called for closer work between the European Commission, Europol, the Anti-Money Laundering Authority, and national gambling regulators.

It also repeated one clear message — there is no "grey market" in the European Union. A casino is either licensed in a country or it operates there illegally.

Report could shape future policy

Member of the European Parliament Lukas Mandl hosted the meeting. He said Europol has an important role in the fight against illegal gambling. Mandl also said the report could help lawmakers as they consider future action.

The meeting came soon after the European Commission proposed changes to Europol's powers — giving the discussion extra importance. Nevertheless, illegal casinos remain easy for players to reach. Hence, the ECA believes stronger enforcement could protect players and help governments recover lost tax income.