Google blocks physical gambling ads in seven African countries amid broader global restrictions
New Google policy bans offline gambling advertisements in Algeria, Djibouti, Egypt, Libya, Morocco, Sudan and Tunisia, affecting operators across the continent.
Algeria.- Google has expanded its restrictions on offline gambling advertisements, affecting 35 countries worldwide. Among them are seven African nations: Algeria, Djibouti, Egypt, Libya, Morocco, Sudan and Tunisia. The move forms part of a broader effort to ensure compliance with local laws and prevent the unauthorised promotion of physical gambling venues.
A PPC Land report states: “Google updated its Gambling and Games policy on November 19, 2025, expanding restrictions on offline gambling advertisements to 35 countries where such promotions violate local laws.”
The policy clarifies what constitutes offline gambling. The report added: “Offline gambling now encompasses ‘legal physical, real-world gambling activity or establishments’ including brick-and-mortar casinos, gaming parlors such as pachinko parlors, and streaming of offline poker tournaments.”
This definition distinguishes offline gambling from online gambling and social casino games, which “operate under separate certification requirements within Google’s advertising framework”.
Advertisers targeting offline gambling in the seven affected African countries must adhere strictly to Google’s updated policy, as non-compliance could lead to ad disapprovals or account penalties, and repeated violations may result in account suspension.
Some additional countries added outside Africa include Bulgaria, Estonia, Italy, Lithuania, Northern Ireland, Philippines, Turkey and Ukraine.
Online gambling ads continue amid offline ban
While offline gambling ads are now restricted, ads for online gambling are still allowed where operators are certified, provided they comply with Google’s rules and local licensing requirements. Certification requires proof that the operator is licensed and legally permitted to promote gambling in the targeted jurisdiction.
The update is likely to push operators toward alternative marketing strategies, such as local promotions, sponsorships, partnerships and social media campaigns, to maintain visibility in restricted regions. This is especially relevant for African operators, where offline gambling is heavily regulated in North and East Africa.
The policy change also reflects a global trend toward stricter offline gambling advertising regulations, aimed at protecting consumers and reducing problem gambling risks. Google’s update provides clearer guidance to advertisers on where offline gambling promotions are prohibited, helping operators align with international compliance standards.
