The US gambling ban has several groups up in arms and now they have the support of one of America’s largest trading partners, the EU. Earlier this week, the EU went public saying the enforcing the ban breaks international trade agreements.  

The US Justice Department and the Executive Branch have been attempting to assemble a coalition against Internet gambling and online casinos, however recently they have felt intense pressure and legal challenges domestically, especially now with the EU breathing down America’s neck. Leaders in the EU may exercise their right and demand compensation for unfair trade practices from the World Trade Organization.  

One of the major complaints is the leniency of some US gambling operations, specifically horse racing being able to operate online and overseas. Legal action has been taken against European operations long after they abolished their US operations, despite American sites operating outside the US without fear of punishment.    

EU officials are hoping to sway President Obama and broaden the world-wide online gambling trade in the hopes of boosting the world economy. The online casino industry is a multi-billionaire dollar industry and it could greatly benefit the US and world economy.