German Regulator Details Black Market Risks and Enforcement Needs at Berlin Conference
At the 2026 Gaming in Germany conference, GGL Head of Enforcement Nadja Wierzejewski aligned with industry on black market risks, citing Euromat data at 25% market share and 77% licensed channelisation. She noted gains from payment blocks but sought IP blocking and deeper operator collaboration. The keynote stressed shared safety goals despite estimate gaps.
SCCG Take — Operators must supply player data to support enforcement or risk prolonged black market persistence at 25%. Regulators hold rules but need industry input to close enforcement gaps effectively.
The Gaming in Germany conference convened in Berlin at the Doubletree Hilton Ku’damm. Discussions addressed the GlüStV 2021 evaluation progress, the legality of prediction markets entering Europe, and the Meta dispute with the licensed sector. SBC News provided live coverage from the event.
Nadja Wierzejewski, Head of Enforcement at the Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde der Länder (GGL), delivered the opening keynote. She stated that the licensed industry and the authority share the goal of a sustainable regulated market, though differences remain on certain points. The GGL has previously stated that licensed channelisation rates stand around 77%.
Contrasting Black Market Assessments
Wierzejewski addressed differing estimates on illegal gambling. The GGL’s numbers align with a Euromat report that placed illegal gambling at 25% of the total market share. Both the regulator and industry recognize the black market carries risks to player safety, life, and health.
“It is our shared objective to avert this danger from players.” Players often do not realize they have entered the illegal market. Wierzejewski cited examples of gamblers associating the Merkur Group sun logo with legal operations.
Enforcement Gains and Calls for Closer Operator Ties
Payment blocking powers have begun to deliver positive results against illegal operators. Wierzejewski called for additional measures including full IP blocking authority. She urged greater cooperation between licensed operators and the GGL.
“I would like to see more from industry operators. You have the players, I have the rules, and only by working together will we see results against the black market.”
Gaming, betting and prediction markets — the desk’s read, every weekday.
Subscribe →