Kansspelautoriteit reports GGR decline after new rules
The Dutch gambling authority, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), reports a GGR decline in the market after stricter deposit limits were introduced.While the number of active...
Total ban on iGaming ads fuels concerns in the Netherlands
Dutch lawmakers raise concerns about potential risks in the upcoming ban on iGaming sports advertisements.
Back in October 2024, the Netherlands considered a total ban on gambling advertisements. Now, Teun Struycken, the State Secretary for Legal Protection, highlights the importance of player protection but confirms a total ban on gambling ads isn’t the goal. Moreover, he believes that operators might find ways to bypass the restrictions, just as they did in Belgium.
Since January 1, Belgium restricted gambling sponsorships. However, clubs have unfortunately bypassed this rule. For example, Club Brugge, previously sponsored by Unibet, now features “U-experts”—a Unibet-related app. Similarly, Cercle Brugge switched its sponsor name from “Golden Palace Casino” to “Golden Palace News.”
A full ban on sports sponsorships by gambling providers will debut in the Netherlands on July 1. The Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) has made it clear that gambling companies will still be held accountable, even if ads come through third-party marketing agencies.
To not see a total collapse of the market, Struycken recommends integrating tighter restrictions on online gambling ads and an update to the Gambling Act to include marketing firms and digital platforms in the regulation.
Still, a total ad ban isn’t preferred. Authorities believe that players must have access to information on legal gambling options. KSA aims to shift towards a system where ads are banned by default unless explicitly allowed.
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.
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