In a landmark agreement, the American Gaming Association (AGA), European Casino Association (ECA), and the Betting & Gaming Council (BGC) have formalized their cooperation through a memorandum of understanding (MOU). This partnership marks a strategic move to combat illegal gambling activities, enforce responsible gaming, foster innovation, and ensure heightened security across the global gaming industry.

Forging a strategic collaboration:

The MOU represents a commitment from these leading associations to confront some of the most pressing challenges in the gambling sector. “This partnership is a crucial step forward in our unified efforts to promote the legal gaming market and safeguard consumers across the globe,” remarked AGA President and CEO Bill Miller in an official press release. He highlighted the importance of leveraging collective resources to extend their battle against illegal gambling activities, enhance responsible gaming practices, and share innovative business strategies.

As part of the collaboration, a law enforcement roundtable is scheduled for January 2025, aiming to bring together top industry leaders, regulators, and law enforcement authorities. The focus of this gathering will be to discuss and strategize against the impact of illegal gambling on legitimate operators, consumer safety, and the global financial system. Miller added, “Through cross-border dialogue and cooperation, the AGA, ECA, and BGC are actively working to protect the integrity of the legal gaming industry and secure its continued prosperity and expansion.”

Erwin van Lambaart, Chairman of the ECA, echoed these sentiments, underscoring the coalition’s commitment to addressing widespread industry challenges. “The ECA is fully committed to this initiative, supporting our continued efforts to combat illegal activities within our industry, strengthen security, and foster an innovative environment for our members and stakeholders,” van Lambaart affirmed.

Enhancing global gambling standards:

Grainne Hurst, CEO of the BGC, described the alliance as the beginning of a new chapter aimed at creating a trusted, sustainable international betting and gaming industry. “Our members are known for their leadership globally and understand the significant benefits of collaboration. By working closely with the AGA and ECA, we are set to significantly boost safer gambling standards and tackle the emerging threats posed by the unregulated gambling sector,” stated Hurst.

The initial law enforcement roundtable under this MOU will focus on enhancing cross-jurisdictional communication and developing comprehensive strategies to combat illegal gambling. This initiative is poised to play a crucial role in defining the future regulatory and operational approaches within the global gaming sector.

This newly formed strategic alliance is a critical development in the global gaming landscape, setting a precedent for cooperation and shared objectives among leading gambling associations. By aligning their goals and combining their expertise, the AGA, ECA, and BGC are not only aiming to resolve immediate industry issues but also to ensure a secure, responsible, and thriving gaming environment worldwide.

The Betting and Gaming Council has also introduced its first International Best Practice Guide, an essential tool for online gaming operators and policymakers worldwide. Compiled by Alvarez and Marsal, the guide delineates core objectives for effective regulation, ranging from high channelization to ensuring gambling remains crime-free and raising tax revenue. It offers a unique body of evidence to evaluate regulatory approaches critically, aiming to balance regulation to curb the unsafe gambling black market—a sector where up to £4.3bn is staked annually in the UK alone.