WTO rules US online gambling ban is illegal

The World Trade Organization (WTO) last week released its ruling in regard to the United States government’s “ban on online gambling” and determined it is illegal.

Antigua successfully argued in its complaint that the U.S. protects a domestic gambling industry while failing to live up to its international commitments.

The WTO said the US could only continue to block such overseas websites if its laws were equally applied to US firms that offer off-track betting on horse racing.

The US government argued it simply wants to limit gambling, however, overseas companies claim the US move is simply protectionism and means to remove foreign competition.

The full WTO ruling can be found on the WTO website.