Update on WTO internet gambling spat - Online Bingo News

Observers of the online bingo industry have been keeping a close eye on developments in the Antigua vs US internet gambling dispute which has major implications for those seeking future access into the US online gambling market.

The escalating dispute, which is being conducted through the World Trade Organization (WTO), has reached a point where the US is to withdraw from its obligations under the WTO agreements structure in order to protect recent US legislation that prohibits foreign gambling companies from conducting online gambling operations in the US market.  The withdrawal may mean the US will have to compensate other nations that have industries, including free online bingo industries, that are affected by the US decision.

The initial stages of these compensation claims are now underway with the Financial Times now reporting that initial US offers of compensation are being rejected.  At the head of the moves to reject the US claims are various pro-gambling groups who have been urging the European Union (EU) to reject US offers.

The EU has subsequently been granted an extension to study the US offers.

Online bingo halls and operators of bingo online games will be interested to see if the EU claims and the claims of Antigua are successful in provoking a reappraisal of US policy regards online gambling.  At this stage it is unlikely that the US will review its anti-online gambling policies.

Written by John Witherspoon – Interested in free online bingo? Our great online bingo portal gives all the info you need.