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Gambling911.com speaks with Tim Buchmann, Chief Editor at CasinoBernie, about Germany’s gambling landscape, regulatory challenges, and what players should look for when choosing an online casino.
Gambling911.com: Germany’s gambling market has changed significantly in recent years. How would you describe the current state of regulation?
Tim Buchmann:
Germany is currently in a transitional phase. The Interstate Treaty on Gambling, introduced in 2021, created a unified framework for online gambling for the first time, covering sports betting, virtual slots and poker.
From a structural point of view, this was a major step forward. However, in practice, the system is still evolving. There are ongoing discussions around enforcement, taxation and how effective the current rules are in guiding players toward licensed operators.
Gambling911.com: One of the most discussed topics is the black market. How serious is the issue?
Tim Buchmann:
The black market is one of the defining challenges in Germany right now. Official estimates suggest it represents around a quarter of the market, but independent studies indicate it could be significantly higher - in some cases over 50%.
What’s important here is not just the percentage, but what it represents. If a large number of players are using unlicensed platforms, then the core objective of regulation - player protection - becomes harder to achieve.
Gambling911.com: Why do you think some players are still using offshore casinos?
Tim Buchmann:
There are a few reasons. Germany has implemented very strict player-protection measures, including deposit limits and gameplay restrictions.
While these are well-intentioned, they can also create friction. Offshore platforms often offer fewer restrictions, faster gameplay and different bonus structures. For some players, that becomes a deciding factor.
It’s a classic regulatory challenge: how do you protect players without making the legal market less attractive?
Gambling911.com: The 2026 review of the gambling treaty is coming up. What should we expect?
Tim Buchmann:
The 2026 evaluation will be a key moment. Regulators and policymakers will assess whether the current framework is actually working - particularly in terms of channelisation, meaning how many players are using licensed platforms.
There is already pressure from policymakers to strengthen enforcement and potentially adjust certain aspects of the regulation.
I expect discussions around deposit limits, taxation and enforcement tools to play a central role.
Gambling911.com: Speaking of enforcement, has Germany been effective in tackling illegal operators?
Tim Buchmann:
Enforcement has definitely increased. The regulator has stepped up actions such as payment blocking and monitoring of illegal advertising.
However, there are still limitations. For example, legal challenges have made it difficult to implement certain measures like ISP blocking.
So while enforcement is improving, it’s still a work in progress.
Gambling911.com: Let’s shift to players. What should German users look for when choosing an online casino?
Tim Buchmann:
The most important factor is whether the casino is licensed and operating within the regulated framework. That ensures access to player protections like deposit limits and dispute resolution.
Beyond that, players should focus on:
- payout reliability
- transparent bonus terms
- reasonable wagering requirements
- trusted software providers
At CasinoBernie, we always emphasize that a good bonus is not just about size - it’s about how realistic it is to actually convert into withdrawable winnings.
Gambling911.com: How do you approach casino reviews at CasinoBernie?
Tim Buchmann:
We take a very structured approach. We evaluate casinos based on licensing, security, payment methods, user experience and bonus conditions.
The goal is to give players a clear, practical understanding of what they can expect.
Gambling911.com: Finally, where do you see the German gambling market heading in the next few years?
Tim Buchmann:
Germany is trying to find the right balance between regulation and competitiveness.
The current framework is one of the strictest in Europe, and that brings both advantages and challenges. The next phase will likely involve adjustments aimed at improving channelisation while maintaining strong consumer protection.
If regulators can strike that balance, Germany could become a more stable and sustainable regulated market. If not, the gap between the legal market and offshore operators may continue to grow.
About Tim Buchmann
Tim Buchmann is the Chief Editor at CasinoBernie, where he covers regulatory developments, casino reviews and market trends in the German online gambling industry.
- B.E. Delmer, Gambling911.com
