EU vs. UIEGA - World Trade Organization complaint
It’s finally here. The European Union is seeing the impact of the US application of the Unlawful Internet Gaming Enforcement Act, and they are taking action. An investigation has begun into the impact of the UIGEA on the 27 nations who are a part of the European Union. The industry brings in 10.05 billion Euro’s annually, which translates into 15.5 billion US Dollars. Not a small sum of pocket change. There is an anticipated level of financial injury to the economies of the international states, once that specific amount is ascertained there will be international implications.
The possible implications of the investigation include further claims through the WTO that were believed to be previously settled. The UIGEA is a violation of the World Trade Organization’s Free Trade Agreement, and it has subsequently lead to billions of dollars in claims against the US, and has resulted in the small island nation of Antigua and Barbados balking at US copyright laws. Additionally as many as 7 separate claims are being filed or have been, with the WTO regarding significant amounts of money being lost to other nations by the US withdrawing themselves from this portion of the trade agreement.
Time will tell where the EU stands, but it is obvious it is not on the side of the UIGEA.
copyright laws european union free trade agreement internet gaming unlawful internet gaming enforcement act world trade organization
