The Dutch state secretary for legal protection announced that the forthcoming update to gambling policy will address the role of competition in the land-based gambling sector
The Dutch government plans to roll out a new gambling policy by March 2025. This move aims to tackle rising concerns about rivalry in the gambling market and the government’s part in the industry. Teun Struycken, state secretary for legal protection, shared this timeline while talking with lawmakers. He stressed the need to bring the rules up to date.
Struycken Addresses Competition and Safety in Dutch Gambling Policy Update
The announcement from Struycken came as an answer to questions asked by MP Michiel van Nispen. He highlighted a big difference between online gambling and land-based gambling. Van Nispen said the Remote Gambling Act has led to tough competition among online operators. However, he pointed out that the physical gambling market has no rivals, which makes people wonder if this is fair.
Struycken replied agreeing these concerns make sense. He said the upcoming policy update will look at competition in land-based gambling. The minister did not give away specific plans, but he promised the government’s deliberations would consider changes to balance competition and keep customers safe.
Another key topic in the talks was the government’s ownership of Holland Casino, which runs all brick-and-mortar casinos in the Netherlands. Even though a review in 2023 found that state ownership is not crucial, Struycken pointed out that giving up control could affect finances and regulations. The review mentioned that while government ownership keeps the focus on public good rather than making the most money, it does not rule out looking at other options down the road.
Struycken Vows Balanced Gambling Reforms Amid Tax and Regulation Challenges
The government’s plan to raise gambling taxes made the debate even more complicated. Struycken shared that talks were happening with Holland Casino about how the tax increase might put a strain on their finances. A new study has cautioned that these hikes could hit the land-based sector hard leading to the shutdown of some branches and putting Holland Casino’s online business at risk. Struycken promised lawmakers they would get more updates on this issue before the summer of 2025.
Responding to Van Nispen’s request to better differentiate online and land-based gambling, Struycken confirmed that the upcoming policy would emphasize the specific risks and regulatory needs of each market. He highlighted the need to tackle addiction risks, which people see as more severe in online gambling because it is easy to access and anonymous. The minister also pointed out that having staff present in land-based gambling spots might make it easier to put protective measures into action.
Struycken wrapped up by restating his dedication to making reforms a top priority in the online gambling market. At the same time, he stressed the need to avoid unnecessary disruption to the stable land-based sector. The updated policy framework, which will go to parliament on March 27, 2025, will try to find a middle ground. It aims to bring regulations up to date while protecting the public’s interests.
