Three of the most prominent gaming associations—the American Gaming Association (AGA), the European Casino Association (ECA), and the Betting & Gaming Council (BGC)—have decided to enter a partnership. The collaboration, formalised by a memorandum of understanding (MOU), aims to address pressing and global issues such as illegal gambling, responsible gaming practices, and will promote innovation in the industry.

The MOU is designed to strengthen international cooperation and create a platform for sharing knowledge and conducting joint research projects. Representatives from each association, along with their members, will work together to improve the security and sustainability of the global gaming industry.

Sharing resources

Bill Miller, President and CEO of the American Gaming Association, expressed optimism about the partnership’s potential impact. “This new partnership is a significant step forward in our collective efforts to advance the legal gaming industry and protect consumers around the globe,” he said. “By sharing our unique resources, we will expand our fight against illegal gambling to new fronts, work together to strengthen responsible gaming, and innovate around business best practices. By fostering dialogue and cooperation across borders, the AGA, ECA, and BGC are taking a proactive approach to safeguarding the integrity of the legal gaming industry and ensuring its continued growth and success,” Miller added.

Erwin van Lambaart, Chairman of the European Casino Association, underscored the importance of the initiative. “The European Casino Association stands united with the AGA and BGC in its commitment to addressing the key issues facing all gaming industry stakeholders,” he stated. He stressed the role of the ECA in supporting ongoing efforts to tackle illegal activities within the industry, protect players, and promote a secure environment that encourages growth and innovation. Van Lambaart also expressed anticipation for the upcoming law enforcement roundtable, where these issues will be discussed in depth.

A new chapter

This collaborative effort marks a new era for the global gaming community, with shared goals and a united front. Grainne Hurst, CEO of the Betting and Gaming Council, highlighted the power of this partnership to reinforce safer gambling standards and address the increasing threat of the unregulated gambling market, particularly in the UK. “This partnership marks a new chapter in our shared vision to build a world-class, trusted, and sustainable betting and gaming industry,” Hurst remarked, adding that the knowledge and expertise brought by each organisation will be essential in tackling the challenges ahead.

Law enforcement roundtable

The first major initiative under the new agreement will take place in January 2025, when a law enforcement roundtable will be held. This event will gather industry leaders, law enforcement, and regulators to discuss the impact of illegal gambling on legitimate operators, consumer protection, and the financial system. The roundtable will focus on improving cross-border communication and developing actionable strategies to curb illegal gambling activities, which continue to pose a threat to the industry’s integrity.

With this new partnership, the AGA, ECA, and BGC aim to ensure the continued growth and success of the global gaming industry while safeguarding consumers and maintaining high standards of security and responsible gaming.

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