In what will hopefully become a model for future government partnerships, France has begun to regulate the online poker activity of their nation. Through licensing and taxation, French players can now legally participate in their favorite game, free from legal repercussions. The two newest members of their stable are Playtech Limited and Microgaming.
Playtech Limited is an developer and designer of poker software, focusing on the mobile and land based applications. Recently, they’ve launched a whole new poker network, exclusive to the nation of France. The first room to hit the net will be ChiliPoker. France’s iPoker network has committed to offering the best to its customers and sponsors.
“I am confident that it will develop to become one of the leading liquid networks in France,” says Mor Weizer, the Playtech CEO. “As the market expands in its regulated form, France has the potential to become a very substantial local market.”
Next on the bandwagon is Microgaming, who have recently been granted a license to operate within French borders. This announcement means that the launch of another 888 (and possibly Absolute) poker site is on the way.
“Today’s announcement represents an important step in the development of the industry and marks the start of European regulated companies collaborating in the online sphere to increase their competitiveness,” said Roger Raatgever, CEO of Microgaming.
The government regulation system, while functional, is far from perfect. There are things to be learned from the French collaboration with international gaming giants, some good and some bad. But overall, it’s encouraging to see our game take this step forward.