The Dutch Online Gaming Association (NOGA) has issued a cautionary statement, warning that a vote in the Dutch House of Representatives to prohibit internet slot machines and online gambling advertisements will likely drive players towards illicit operations.
NOGA expressed concerns about the potential for a black market surge if the Dutch ban on slot machines is enacted, as the prohibition could lead gamblers to illegal gambling websites. According to Dutch Casino News, the House of Representatives conducted a vote on Tuesday (April 16) to ban all targeted advertising. In addition to two proposals presented by Socialist Party MP Michiel van Nispen, further proposals were approved regarding mandatory gambling financial risk checks and identity verification.
The ban also encompasses a prohibition on “high-risk” gambling, including slot machines. Despite the vote, the ban still requires formalization into law. Dutch Minister of Legal Protection Franc Weerwind will now review the proposal and determine whether to approve the legislation.
NOGA characterized these measures as “precipitous and irresponsible,” while also urging Weerwind to avoid making irreversible decisions. NOGA chairman Peter-Paul de Goeij stated: “The House is attempting to impose a decision based on inaccurate data, assumptions, and unfounded fears.
“Minister Weerwind has maintained a composed demeanor thus far.”
We depend on the outgoing and incoming administrations to maintain this prudent approach, never compromising the safety of online gamers.
NOGA: The prohibition will compel players to utilize offshore operators.
Previous endeavors to entirely prohibit gambling advertisements had failed prior to Tuesday’s vote. Earlier this year, a comprehensive prohibition on gambling-related advertising proposed by MP Dirk Boswijk was unsuccessful. Nevertheless, Van Nispen’s new proposal on advertising passed with 77 votes.
Concurrently, a proposal to prohibit “high-risk” online gambling passed with 79 votes on Tuesday.
NOGA estimates that 90% of Dutch players wager with legal providers. However, the association is concerned that the new legislation will force gamblers back to the illicit market.
NOGA worries that the new advertising ban will confuse players, making it difficult for them to ascertain if they are playing with illegal providers.
“The House majority is taking a costly gamble on online players who are now consciously selecting legal services,” De Gooy explained.
“If we soon discover that politicians have made the wrong decision too hastily, the House will be accountable for the negative consequences.”
The Remote Gambling Act will be assessed in 2024.
The Remote Gambling Act will be evaluated later this year by the Dutch Ministry of Justice and Security.
However, NOGA and De Gooy assert that there is not yet sufficient data to conduct a proper informed review.
At present, extensive investigation is in progress due to the lack of sufficient data for making well-informed choices. De Goey stated, “Let’s patiently wait for the outcomes of these studies, then engage in thorough discussions and make decisions that effectively safeguard online participants from the hazards of problematic gambling and gambling dependence.”
The Netherlands’ present gambling regulations
The Remote Gambling Act evaluation is not yet finalized. However, the Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) has already initiated preparations to safeguard players from the detrimental effects of gambling.
The Netherlands has prohibited untargeted advertising, which became effective in July 2023. Advertising through mass media such as television and radio is forbidden. Sports sponsorships are also banned, but the Netherlands is currently in a transitional period for existing sponsorship arrangements.
In October, the KSA announced a nationwide campaign against digital fraud to address concerns about online gambling offenses.
The KSA stressed in a letter: “Anyone who desires to participate should be able to play responsibly. But responsible gaming can transform into problematic gambling.”
The KSA also introduced additional measures in December 2023. Providers will be required to contact players who establish a deposit limit of at least €350 (£303/$386). Operators will be obligated to remind players of the risks associated with wagering such substantial sums of money.
Moreover, CasinoNieuws reports that Weerwind proposes showing amounts in euros. Weerwind also encourages further investigation into overall gambling restrictions.
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