France's Autorité nationale des jeux (ANJ) has launched its experimental regulatory framework for blockchain gaming, organizing an industry briefing with web3 companies to introduce the new JONUM oversight structure.
The experimental framework stems from articles 40 and 41 of law 2024-449 dated 21 May 2024, which aimed to secure and regulate digital spaces (SREN). This legislation establishes a three-year experimental period for regulating games featuring monetizable digital objects (JONUM) – games featuring monetizable digital objects.
Regulatory Framework Takes Effect
Decree 2026-60, dated 4 February 2026 and entering force on 7 février 2026, operationalizes the JONUM regulatory structure. The framework targets blockchain-based gaming offerings, which the regulator notes are highly heterogeneous and rapidly evolving.
Under the legal definition, JONUM games must meet cumulative criteria: financial sacrifice, chance-based mechanisms, online public communication services, and the provision of obtainable monetizable digital objects (ONUM). These ONUM can specifically take forms including NFT or gaming currency tokens.
The legislation permits JONUM operators to distribute rewards beyond ONUM, classified as accessory rewards, with specific nature and capping rules defined in the 4 February 2026 decree.
Streamlined Approach
The regulatory framework for JONUM operators is deliberately lighter than requirements for traditional gambling operators, reflecting a balance between innovation, market access and consumer protection.
Operator Declaration Requirements
Companies seeking to offer JONUM services on French territory must complete prior declarations with ANJ. The regulator provides online declaration forms for this mandatory process.
ANJ will issue receipts to declarants once their submissions are formally complete, though this documentation does not constitute compliance guarantees. The authority plans to publish lists of declared JONUM offerings on its website for public transparency.
| Key Dates | Details |
|---|---|
| 21 May 2024 | SREN law 2024-449 passed establishing experimental framework |
| 4 February 2026 | Decree 2026-60 signed operationalizing JONUM structure |
| 7 February 2026 | Regulatory framework enters into force |
| 3 years | Total experimental period duration |
JONUM Definition
JONUM games must meet four cumulative criteria: financial sacrifice, chance-based mechanisms, online public communication services, and provision of obtainable monetizable digital objects (ONUM). These ONUM can take forms including NFT or gaming currency tokens, with operators also permitted to distribute capped accessory rewards beyond ONUM.
Industry Engagement Strategy
The regulator's industry briefing with web3 companies marks the formal launch phase, designed to present the experimental framework and establish ongoing dialogue with potentially affected businesses. This engagement reflects ANJ's approach to understanding the diverse and evolving blockchain gaming sector.
Supporting materials including frequently asked questions are available through ANJ's official website to assist operators in understanding the new requirements.
Strategic Implications for Digital Gaming
This experimental framework represents France's measured approach to blockchain gaming regulation, establishing oversight without stifling innovation. The three-year timeline provides sufficient duration to assess effectiveness while maintaining flexibility for adjustments.
The streamlined regulatory approach may influence other European jurisdictions considering similar blockchain gaming frameworks. Similar to how Denmark has reached a political deal on gambling reforms, operators should monitor how this experiment shapes broader EU approaches to digital asset gaming regulation, particularly regarding monetizable digital object classifications and consumer protection standards.
According to French National Gaming Authority (ANJ).
Legal Disclaimer
This content reflects a general overview of regulatory frameworks based on publicly available information. It does not constitute legal advice or a legal opinion. iGamingWriter.blog disclaims any liability arising from reliance on this material.
