The annual study by the Portuguese Online Gambling and Betting Association (APAJO) reveals that 41% of gamblers use unlicensed gambling platforms. Among those aged 18 to 34, this figure rises to over half, at 52.1%.
APAJO's members include Betclic and Bwin, companies that have previously initiated criminal proceedings against social media influencers promoting illegal sites. Its 2024 study in Portugal found that the main reasons users prefer unlicensed platforms are higher bonuses, better odds, and more variety of games. Those who prefer licensed platforms emphasize security (61.3%) and better customer support (37.3%).
In the "2024 Portuguese Online Gambling Habits" study, about 90% of respondents are aware that offering gambling services without a license in Portugal is illegal. APAJO notes that 4 out of the top 15 online gambling platforms in the country are operated illegally.
APAJO's president, Ricardo Domingues, states that licensed operators, legislative bodies, and regulatory agencies must work together to achieve at least an 80% channelization rate. He warns that illegal platforms pose an "imminent danger" to user safety.
"Currently, most illegal operators are dubious projects that blatantly try to exploit the convenience of reaching Portuguese audiences while avoiding all consumer protection rules and taxes," Domingues says. "Such organizations expose players to various risks, from their balances to their personal and financial data, and even engage in predatory behavior towards vulnerable audiences."
Portuguese Illegal Gambling Site Users Bet More
This year, the sample size for the study of Portuguese online gambling habits expanded to 1,000 people. The methodology identified who actually gambles with licensed or illegal operators and separately asked players to declare if they gamble on unlicensed platforms.
According to the study, 71.5% of respondents claim to spend up to 50 euros ($54.90) a month, although most spend less than 25 euros. Among those who only bet with licensed operators, 77.6% gamble less than 50 euros a month. APAJO indicates that in Portugal, the proportion of users who bet with illegal operators and spend the most is "much higher."
Regarding responsible gambling tools, 78.2% of players say they are aware that licensed operators have these tools, and 43.3% say they have used or are using them.
Domingues adds: "We must also not forget the tax losses, which we estimate to be over 100 million euros. It is necessary to prevent these operators from self-promoting through social networks, influencers, and sponsored articles in Portuguese media, as well as from offering payment methods like Multibanco and MBWay."
APAJO has been committed to combating illegal gambling, launching several criminal lawsuits last month against influencers promoting illegal gambling platforms. Influencer Cláudia Nayara became the subject of one such lawsuit at the beginning of 2024.
APAJO states: "These individuals promote unlicensed operators through affiliate links and profit from it."
Last year, APAJO launched the "My Game is Serious" campaign to promote responsible gambling. The campaign attracted many influential people.
The revenue from Portugal's legal online gambling market continues to grow. For over a year, the country has set records for online gambling revenue for several consecutive quarters.
