Morocco Targets 1XBET’s Illegal Gambling Operations

Morocco’s Minister Thunders on 1XBET

Morocco’s Budget Minister Fouzi Lekjaa accused 1XBET of draining billions in foreign currency from Morocco while bypassing regulatory frameworks. He contrasted these practices with the country’s regulated gaming sector, which contributes approximately MAD 2.5 billion ($250 million) in taxes annually.

According to the minister, unregulated operators like 1XBET pose a direct threat to national financial stability.

Despite being deemed illegal, 1XBET has actively pursued sponsorship agreements with Moroccan sports teams. The operator signed a three-year deal worth MAD 10 million ($1 million) annually with Raja Casablanca and partnered with Association Sportive de Salé.

Attempts to sponsor national teams, including the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, were blocked by the government, which firmly rejected any association with the company.

1XBET Operates Illegally in Morocco

Investigations revealed that 1XBET operates without legal registration in Morocco, using multiple mirror sites and integrating local payment systems. The Moroccan Games and Sports Authority (MDJS), holding a monopoly on legal sports betting, has explicitly declared the operator’s activities illegal.

Further investigations by the High Authority for Audiovisual Communication (HACA) have uncovered illegal advertising campaigns, prompting coordinated actions with various governmental bodies, including the Ministry of Finance.

Lekjaa emphasized the need for robust regulations targeting foreign operators to address risks such as tax evasion, money laundering, and gambling addiction. He called for stricter requirements, including maintaining registered offices and official documentation to ensure transparency and compliance.

Citing a United Nations report, Lekjaa also warned of the social harm caused by 1XBET, particularly its impact on youth and the potential for sports corruption.