Belgium set to restrict gambling adverts

Belgium has moved a step closer to implementing stricter rules on gambling advertising after the Council of Ministers approved a legislative bill put forward by Minister of Justice Koen Geens.

The bill includes a ban on gambling ads during breaks in live sporting events and no publicity for online sports betting before 8pm, with gambling sponsorships of sport clubs also banned.

Geens said changes were needed because current levels of publicity were encouraging too much gambling and is leading to addiction.

Geens is also hoping to limit the impact of gambling publicity on children and minors, as the bill suggests no advertising 15 minutes prior to, or after, children’s TV programmes.

The legislation must still be sanctioned by the European Commission, and be approved by representatives of de Kamer, the country’s legislative power.

The Belgian Gaming Commission said it is ready to implement the proposals and told EGR: “The Gaming Commission is happy that the Minister of Justice is working on a better regulatory body.

“This will lead to a better protection of vulnerable persons and a more professional gambling sector.”