Sandro Kirchner, State Secretary for Sport and Integration at the Bavarian Interior Ministry, has been appointed chairman of Germany’s gambling regulator, the Gemeinsamen Glücksspielbehörde der Länder (GGL).
Kirchner began his presidency of the GGL on July 1. The organization’s leadership follows an annual rotation system, based on the alphabetical order of the member states.
He succeeds Reiner Moser, head of the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of the Interior for Digitalization and Local Authorities.
Commenting on his new role, Kirchner stressed that his priorities will be cracking down on illegal operators and protecting players.
Kirchner stated: “The work of the GGL must continue to be significantly directed towards ensuring that the illegal gambling business model is not profitable in Germany.
We will certainly continue to face many challenges. However, I believe GGL is well positioned to achieve this goal.”
Moser highlights progress and reinforces the fight against unlicensed operators
After serving his one-year term, Moser stepped down. During his tenure, GGL strengthened its presence in the country’s online gaming market. However, he reinforced the need to intensify efforts against unregulated gambling.
Moser said: “The online gambling market has developed rapidly in recent years.
GGL has faced the resulting challenges with great commitment and has already demonstrated remarkable results both in combating illegal gambling and in regulating and supervising the legal market.
The exchange between the states and the GGL is always trusting and results-oriented.”
Experts suggest reviewing the Interstate Treaty on Gambling
Kirchner’s appointment comes amid questions about the current version of Germany’s Interstate Gambling Treaty. The German Online Casino Association (DOCV) and Michelle Hembury of Melchers Law are advocating for an update to the agreement to resolve regulatory impasses.
Both pointed out issues such as IP blocking and questions regarding deposit and betting limits. Currently, the betting limit for online slots is €1, while the maximum monthly deposit allowed is €1,000 across all platforms.
According to industry experts, these values make it difficult for licensed operators to compete against illegal operators.
DOCV Vice President Simon Priglinger-Simader also advocates for a review of the standards. He stated that the current guidelines will no longer be valid as of next year, and therefore, an update is expected before 2026.
Finally, Hembury reinforced the importance of reviewing current rules to ensure greater efficiency in controlling the sector.
