BGC signs MOU with AGA and ECA to address global gaming industry issues

BGC, AGA and ECA sign MOU
Image: American Gaming Association

The Betting & Gaming Council (BGC) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the American Gaming Association (AGA) and the European Casino Association (ECA) for collaboration on global gaming industry issues.

Key priorities of the three parties in the partnership include illegal gambling, responsible gaming, innovation and security, as the MOU aims to create a platform for joint research projects and shared expertise amongst each organisation’s staff and members.

“This partnership marks a new chapter in our shared vision to build a world-class, trusted and sustainable betting and gaming industry,” commented Grainne Hurst, CEO of the Betting & Gaming Council.

“BGC members are rightly proud of their reputation as global leaders, and they know the power of collaboration. Working together with the AGA and ECA, I am confident our shared knowledge and expertise will be vital to bolstering safer gambling standards while tackling the threat of the growing and unsafe unregulated gambling black market in the UK.” 

Scheduled for next January, the collaboration’s first initiative will be a law enforcement roundtable focused on combating illegal gambling, bringing together industry leaders, law enforcement officials and regulators. 

Stakeholders at this roundtable will discuss illegal gambling’s impact on legal operators, consumer safety and the global financial system, in addition to examining strategies for improving cross-jurisdictional communication and developing actionable solutions to address these challenges.

“The European Casino Association stands united with the AGA and BGC in its commitment to addressing the key issues facing all gaming industry stakeholders”, stated Erwin van Lambaart, Chair of the European Casino Association. 

“The ECA fully backs this initiative and supports the ongoing efforts to rigorously combat illegality within our industry, continuously strengthen player protections and security, and ensure the creation of an environment that fosters innovation and growth within the gaming community. 

“On behalf of the ECA, I look forward to participating in the forthcoming law enforcement roundtable and to sharing the benefits of these learnings with our members.” 

Bill Miller, CEO and President of the American Gaming Association, added: “This new partnership is a significant step forward in our collective efforts to advance the legal gaming industry and protect consumers around the globe. 

“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.”