German state of Baden-Württemberg approves online casino games

Politicians in Stuttgart have approved the regulation of certain online casino games in the German state of Baden-Württemberg this month.

The German Interstate Treaty on Gambling came into force in 2021. As well as legalising online slots and sports betting, which had previously been prohibited in Germany, it also allowed states to pen their own regulation for virtual casinos with table games.

Baden-Württemberg has used its option in the treaty to open up state-run online casino games such as blackjack and roulette in its territory.

Following on from Bavaria and Schleswig-Holstein in 2024, the southwestern state will become the third to regulate these games in Germany.

"It can be assumed that otherwise people living in Baden-Württemberg will continue to play with illegal providers who do not comply with the necessary measures to protect players,” the legislative bill states.

"Apart from the fact that they are committing a criminal offence, it will be difficult to explain why similar games can be played legally in other states but not in Baden-Württemberg.”

According to the bill, online casino gaming tax will be set at 15% per calendar month on casino revenue up to €300,000. Meanwhile, 20% tax will be applied to revenues between €300,000 and €750,000 euros and 25% will be applied on takings exceeding €750,000.

Germany’s Interstate Treaty noted at the time that one of the goals of regulating online casino was to provide consumers who want to gamble an avenue not associated with the black market. This not only provides tax for the state but protects consumers from manipulation and offers additional player protection.

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