Netherlands discuss new reforms to combat illegal gambling
Netherlands policymakers aim to develop a safer and better-regulated gambling landscape. Recent debates led by State Secretary for Legal Protection Teun Struycken have emphasised key points of concern, such as illegal gambling, taxation, and age limits. As regulations first introduced in 2021 are now up for review, the government is keen to modernise laws to better protect players and tackle industry issues.
Key Issues addressed in parliamentary session
The Netherlands’ Remote Gambling Act came into effect in 2021, allowing licensed operators to offer online gambling. However, concerns over problem gambling and the rise of illegal platforms have led to an extensive review initiated in 2024. The latest parliamentary session on 28 March 2025 saw politicians debating potential changes to the law and discussing research findings on gambling trends in the country.
During the meeting, MPs from various parties expressed concerns about current gambling laws and their effectiveness. Struycken, who is spearheading the reform, emphasised the importance of tackling illegal gambling and ensuring better player protection.
Members of parliament (MPs) Rosemarijn Dral, Peter Smitskam, Michiel van Nispen, Diederik van Dijk, Mikal Tseggai, Derk Boswijk, Mirjam Bikker, Marieke Wijen-Nass, and Willem Koops joined Struycken for the latest cross-party discussion.
Tackling illegal gambling
One of the main subjects raised was the increase in illegal gambling, with statistics suggesting that illegal sites receive more expenditure than licensed sites. MPs explained that problem gamblers are especially at risk of falling for these sites. Struycken and the rest of the members urged more stringent enforcement and greater monitoring to prevent illegal gambling operations.
Age limit debate and its implications
One of the controversial proposals was to increase the minimum age for slot machine gambling to 21. Although some believed that having a uniform age limit for all gambling would be simpler to enforce, others cautioned that this would drive young players to illegal websites. Struycken suggested phasing the implementation to avoid forcing users to the black market.
Christian Union leader Mirjam Bikker also condemned the participation of gambling industry players in policymaking. She claimed that their influence might result in lax rules that protect businesses at the expense of consumer protection. MPs Koops and Van Dijk shared this sentiment, advocating for a more autonomous style of law-making.
Taxation was also discussed, with suggestions to raise gambling tax rates. Some MPs advocated for tax increases to raise more revenue, while others warned that over-taxation could drive operators out of the regulated market.
Task force to combat illegal gambling
A report from Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) revealed that the illegal gambling market in the Netherlands is thriving, often due to increased restrictions on legal platforms. MPs stressed the need to address this issue to ensure that players are adequately protected. They proposed measures such as blocking illegal websites and increasing penalties for operators violating regulations.
MP Dral proposed establishing a dedicated task force to combat illegal gambling, a move supported by several trade organisations. Struycken confirmed that discussions on forming such a body were ongoing, and further details would be shared soon.
The government aims to present an updated Remote Gambling Act by the end of 2025. While the proposed reforms are designed to enhance player protection and market regulation, challenges remain in enforcing new laws effectively.
