Zona de Azar The Netherlands – Netherlands to Revise Gambling Policies and State Ownership of Holland Casino

The Netherlands.- 19th December 2024 www.zonadeazar.com Teun Struycken, the Dutch Minister for Legal Protection, announced that the government is reviewing the country’s gambling policies and plans to present a revised framework to the House of Representatives by March 2025. This announcement came after concerns raised by MP Michiel van Nispen, who highlighted the differences between the land-based and online gambling sectors.

Van Nispen pointed out that while the Remote Gambling Act has increased online competition, it has also led to “undesirable financial incentives,” while the state-owned Holland Casino continues to dominate the land-based market. He questioned whether more licensed operators should be allowed to compete in this sector. In response, Struycken acknowledged the need for modernization and suggested that the revised framework could include measures to foster competition in the land-based market.

The issue of state ownership of Holland Casino was also discussed. Struycken referenced a 2023 evaluation, which found that state ownership is “not strictly necessary.” He explained that while it helps meet gambling policy objectives like consumer protection and tackling addiction, it restricts market competition. Struycken also mentioned a potential increase in gambling taxes, which could affect Holland Casino’s operations.

Regarding consumer protection, Van Nispen requested greater clarity between online and land-based gambling. Struycken confirmed that this distinction will be prioritized in the new policy, particularly concerning the risks of addiction and other gambling-related harms. He promised a detailed update to the House on March 27, 2025, focusing on changes to online gambling.

Edited by: @MaiaDigital www.zonadeazar.com