DAW Sets Out Wish List for Re-regulation of German Gambling Market

The Deutsche Automatenwirtschaft (DAW), the umbrella organisation for Germany’s gaming machine associations, has created a wish list for the re-regulation of the country’s gambling market.

DAW explained that the current regulations for commercial gambling undermine the objectives of the State Treaty on Gambling, in particular when it comes to channeling players towards the legal market.

It said establishments should be permitted to offer multiple game verticals, and that updated regulations should maintain the state lottery monopoly on draw-based games.

New regulations must ensure that legal providers can offer a competitive and economically viable alternative to unlicensed operators, the DAW said.

“The amendment of the State Treaty on Gambling is a great opportunity to counteract the undesirable developments – above all the rapid growth of the black market – with a holistic approach. Only a coherent regulation of all forms of gaming, including the use of commercial slot machines based solely on quality standards, and a strengthening of legal providers can curb the black market and effectively protect consumers,” Georg Stecker, chief executive of DAW said.

DAW calls on state lawmakers to introduce uniform standards for responsible gaming training and player protection measures across all sectors. These controls, it says, must be constantly developed and regularly evaluated by professionals to ensure they are fit for purpose.

A nationwide biometric system that would ensure voluntary restrictions on players’ gambling should also be rolled out. It also believes a certification system for all gaming halls and outlets offering slot machines should be implemented, to help consumers distinguish legal from illegal offerings. In addition, the association argues in favour of a qualification system for gaming machine professionals.

Finally, the DAW argues in favour of regulations governing the exterior design of gaming establishments. It says these should ensure there are no inducements to gamble for minors and vulnerable people, while allowing the operator to inform and educate players about the range of games on offer.