Dutch Government to Propose Updated Gambling Policy by March 2025
The Dutch Minister for Legal Protection, Teun Struycken, has announced plans to present updated gambling policy to the House of Representatives by March 2025. The proposed reforms aim to address competition concerns in the gambling sector, particularly in the land-based market.
Addressing Competition in Gambling Markets
The announcement follows questions raised by house member Michiel van Nispen regarding the adequacy of current gambling policies. Van Nispen pointed out significant competition in the online gambling market, driven by the Remote Gambling Act, but noted a monopoly in the land-based market dominated by the state-owned Holland Casino.
Struycken acknowledged the concerns and indicated that the new policy will consider measures to increase competition in the land-based gambling segment, reflecting on the sector’s outdated legal framework, which dates back to 2011.
“In March 2025, I will share my vision on the future development and objectives of gambling policy, including considerations regarding competition in the market,” Struycken said.
Holland Casino’s State Ownership Under Review
Van Nispen also questioned the necessity of the state’s ownership of Holland Casino. While Struycken cited a May 2023 evaluation stating that state ownership is not essential, he highlighted potential revenue losses and diminished control over gambling-related harm if the state relinquishes its stake.
“The evaluation established that the added value of shareholding is not so significant as to rule out exploring other future options,” Struycken noted, leaving open the possibility of market liberalisation.
Tax Increases and Potential Impacts
Struycken also referenced a planned gambling tax increase, which has sparked discussions with Holland Casino. A recent report warned that the tax hike could severely impact online operators and force Holland Casino to close branches or discontinue its online operations. Updates on the tax policy and its implications are expected by summer 2025.
Differentiating Online and Land-Based Gambling
A key component of the new policy will be clarifying distinctions between online and land-based gambling. Struycken stressed the importance of addressing the risks and harms unique to each sector.
“I will address where further distinction between different games of chance is needed, particularly regarding risks of addiction or gambling-related harm,” Struycken stated.
The updated policy, prioritising adjustments in the online gambling market, is set to be presented for debate on 27 March 2025.
