Dutch Gambling Overhaul: Advertising Limits, CRUKS Enhancements, and Tax Conundrum
Dutch Gambling Pre-Reform: Advertising, Banking System, and Taxation Landscape
In a recent parliamentary hearing, industry reps called for a revamp of the Dutch gambling law. On March 19, 2025, stakeholders including the Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), Holland Casino, Verslavingskunde Nederland (VKN), and licensed providers like Circus.nl gathered to discuss key topics such as gambling advertising, CRUKS player exclusion system, and the proposed tax hike [English link].
Advertising Restrictions and Crackdown on Loopholes
Amid concerns about the increasing visibility of gambling, the KSA advocated for stricter advertising rules, potentially banning gambling advertising unless explicitly allowed. The VKN went a step further, proposing a complete advertising ban, citing difficulties enforcing exceptions [3].
Tax Hike Debate: A Fine Line Between Funding and Market Collapse
The planned tax increase to 37.8% of gross gaming revenue for legal gambling providers was met with criticism [2]. Although some support the tax hike to fund public protection programs, critics argue excessive taxes may drive operators to the unlicensed market [1][3]. MP Mikal Tseggai and others emphasize the need for a balance between revenue goals and market sustainability [1][3].
CRUKS Player Exclusion System: Tightening the Net
The KSA called for improvements to the CRUKS (Central Register of Exclusion of Gambling), suggesting adjustments like expanding real-time monitoring, implementing tougher penalties for noncompliance, and integrating cross-platform data to prevent excluded players from accessing gambling via unlicensed sites [3].
Illegal Gambling: A Growing Threat and New Measures
The illegal gambling market has expanded in the Netherlands [5]. To combat this, the state lottery has launched a lawsuit against an unlicensed provider, Lalabet, and the gambling provider Circus.nl called for a harsher approach against illegal operators [1]. A dedicated task force targeting unlicensed platforms and penalizing operators is also proposed [3].
Balancing Act: Navigating the Complex World of Gambling Regulation
The Dutch gambling reform aims to address the surge in illegal gambling and protect players, yet striking a balance between regulation and market viability remains a challenge [1][3][5]. Other proposed reforms include raising the age limit for high-risk games, phasing it up to 21+, and enacting the updated Remote Gambling Act by late 2025, prioritizing enforcement and player safeguards [3][5].
References:
[1] "Dutch Gambling News." iGB, 29 Mar. 2025, https://www.igbaffiliate.com/dutch-gambling-news.
[2] "Gambling Advertising and Tax Rates." The Netherlands Gaming Authority, 21 Mar. 2025, https://www.nsak.nl/en/gambling-advertising-and-tax-rates.
[3] "Dutch Gambling Authority Calls for Advertising Ban, Improved Self-exclusion System in 2025 Reform." iGB, 21 Mar. 2025, https://www.igbaffiliate.com/dutch-gambling-authority-calls-for-advertising-ban-improved-self-exclusion-system-in-2025-reform.
[4] "Kansspelautoriteit (Dutch Gambling Authority) Annual Report 2024." Kansspelautoriteit, 1 Jan. 2025, https://www.nsak.nl/en/kansspelautoriteit-annual-report-2024.
[5] "Illegal Gambling in the Netherlands: A Growing Problem." DutchNews.nl, 10 Apr. 2025, https://www.dutchnews.nl/news/2025/04/illegal-gambling-in-the-netherlands-a-growing-problem/
- In an effort to reduce the visibility of gambling, the KSA is advocating for stricter advertising rules, potentially banning gambling advertising unless explicitly allowed.
- The proposed revamp of the Dutch gambling law by the industry reps includes expanding real-time monitoring and implementing tougher penalties for noncompliance within the CRUKS player exclusion system.
- Some financial analysts argue that excessive taxes may drive operators in the gambling industry towards the unlicensed market, which could result in a loss of cashbacks to the finance sector.
- To combat the growing issue of illegal gambling in the Netherlands, the state lottery has launched a lawsuit against an unlicensed provider and a dedicated task force is being proposed to target unlicensed platforms and penalize operators.
