The Netherlands considers a total ban on gambling ads

The Dutch Association of Mental Health and Addiction Care, De Nederlandse ggz, calls on the government to impose a complete ban on all forms of gambling advertisements.
In July 2023, the Dutch government implemented a ban on gambling advertising across various media channels, including television, radio, print, and advertising in public places. However, it is still allowed to advertise gambling on different platforms, such as social media and males. This is full of risks, especially for underage groups.
According to data from LADIS, the national database for alcohol and drug use, in 2023, there were 2456 reports from people seeking help with gambling addiction. The growing demand for help reflects the challenges associated with gambling and shows the call for stricter regulations on gambling advertising.
Chairwoman Ruth Peetoom said:
“People, and young people in particular, are too easily exposed to the risks of addiction. The younger people find gambling normal, the greater the chance of problematic gambling later in life. We also recognise this tactic from the tobacco industry, for example. Young people are very sensitive to stimuli such as ‘fast money’ and are influenced by role models. The online gambling industry also makes clever use of this. The younger people think that gambling is normal, the greater the chance of problematic gambling later in life. That is why we are jointly advocating a general advertising ban on online gambling. We see major risks, especially on social media.”
The Nederlandse ggz also requires Kansspelautoriteit to join the challenge and impose stricter regulations and support players. Otherwise, the increasing numbers will affect the total health system of the nation.
FAQs
Is gambling legal in the Netherlands?
Gambling in the Netherlands is legal and strictly regulated by the Dutch Gambling Authority, Kansspelautoriteit.
What is the legal gambling age in the Netherlands?
The legal gambling age in the Netherlands is 18 years old.
With a degree in linguistics and translation, I create content that speaks the language of iGaming. My passion for turning topics into content that connects, informs, and entertains led me to specialize in writing for the iGaming industry. Over the past year with AffPapa, I have covered industry insights with different news, articles, and opinion pieces.