Dutch Government Plans for Review of Gambling Policy Take a Step Forward

_{The State Secretary for Legal Protection, Teun Struycken, says the Dutch government is moving forward with stricter gambling regulations. (Image: ANP / Alamy)}

The plans for an update to the Dutch Gambling Policy announced in 2024 by Teun Struycken, the State Secretary for Legal Protection, have been introduced by way of the latest revised gambling policy.

The policy aims to enhance regulation, particularly for online casinos, following an increase in the number of online gamblers and problem gambling cases since the market's legalisation in 2021.

Age Restrictions, Duty of Care and Deposit Limits Included in Revised Policy

Key changes outlined in the new policy, which builds on the original 2011 Vision on Gambling, include age restrictions with the age limit for high-risk gambling rising from 18 to 21 years, though specific games affected remain unspecified.

There is also a duty of care for providers whereby legal casino software operators will face stricter rules to protect players, requiring the involvement of independent experts. In the area of deposit limits, a singular deposit and loss limit across all providers will be established, requiring financial capacity verification for increases.

There are also advertising restrictions, which will include stricter rules on advertising remote games, including a "no, unless" ban related to bonuses and promotions.

The Dutch Gaming Authority (KSA) will gain enhanced regulatory powers, which will allow for undercover operations, quicker license suspensions, and the ability to block illegal gambling websites.

Finally, there will be prevention and research initiatives that involve improvements to the self-exclusion system (CRUKS), easier integration of involuntary exclusions, and permissions for researchers to access anonymised data will be pursued.

Consultation on New Bill Planned for 2026 

The legislative process of drafting a bill is set to begin in late 2025, with consultations on the bill planned for 2026, although some measures may be expedited.

The government seeks to fundamentally reshape Dutch gambling policy and strengthen efforts against illegal gambling, aligning with broader European goals. For further details, stakeholders are encouraged to contact CMS experts.