Arcade machines in cafés have not been checked by authorities for five years. This means there is no limit on how much players can lose, despite the industry making a 120-million-euro profit during those five years. The Het Laatste Nieuws and De Morgen reported on this story on Saturday.
These machines are mostly arcade machines with video screens, in particular virtual card games. The games ask for a small bet and players can win small amounts, but there is no limit on how much players can lose. This can make them riskier than some casino games.
The Gambling Commission stopped the checks on these machines back in 2013, after a disagreement with the Tax office. The exact number of machines affected is unknown, but it is thought to be at least 6,000. Figures show the industry made around 120 million euros over the last five years.
Justice minister Koen Geens (CD&V) has said a new law will be introduced next year.
The Brussels Times
