In the Netherlands the Kansspelautoriteit, the gambling regulator, presented their supervisory agenda 2024. They cited four key areas.
In order to fulfill its “safe gaming” mission, the KSA will protect vulnerable players by preventing addiction. In 2023 the country introduced measures that included a ban of most advertising.
In addition, the KSA wants to fight illegal online gambling by encouraging at least 90 percent of Dutch players to play with licensed providers. Ismail Vali, Yield Sec’s chief executive and iGB contributor in December noted that the KSA approach seemed to be lacking success when it came to actual enforcement.
KSA will continue to support its partners in investigations conducted by the tax and police authorities. This regulator is hoping that this will result in less “undermining”, between organisations.
Last but not least, the KSA is focused on data compliance. KSA is looking for data that’s “complete, accurate and timely”. The KSA will be able to identify potential crimes more quickly.
The Netherlands is focusing more on gambling addiction
Derk Boswijk, of the Christian Democratic Appeal party (CDA), submitted a proposal earlier this month to ban gambling advertisements in the Netherlands. The attempt to ban untargeted advertisements beyond 2023 ultimately failed. However, the proposal was the latest indication of growing concern about gambling harms.
Franc Weerwind announced in December that he would be taking measures to protect the players against problem gambling.
Weerwind required providers to reach out to players who set deposit limits of EUR350. The operators should warn such players about the dangers of betting such large amounts.
Consultations by the KSA on an updated Responsible Gaming Policy Rule ended early in February. It is hoped that the rules will be published in April.
Weerwind announced in October a programme of multi-year campaign to fight fraud related to online gambling.
However, the industry has reacted against Weerwind on some proposals. Peter-Paul de Goeij of the Dutch Online Gambling Association warned Weerwind about his plans, which could make gambling “unattractive”.
Helma Lodders of the Licensed Dutch Online Gaming Providers VNLOK highlighted two important areas in Weerwind’s letter.
Lodders explained that “firstly, the imposed measures actually work to keep as few problem players as possible.”
The legal offers must remain attractive to the majority of participants who act responsibly. This is crucial to stop them returning to illegal supplies.
