Netherlands Contemplates Ban on Gambling Ads and Deposit Limits!

Another important move happened in one of the fastest-growing markets in Europe, the Netherlands.

A motion has been presented by Derk Boswijk of the Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA) party to fully prohibit gambling advertising in the Netherlands. This includes banning ads in every aspect including television, radio, and print. The move aims to protect vulnerable demographics, particularly youth, from the influence of targeted ads.

Legislative Decision Ahead

The motion, co-endorsed by several legislators, is scheduled for a parliamentary vote. This impending decision could indicate a significant change in the country's gambling advertising policies.

In parallel, a proposal by Mirjam Bikker advocates for universal deposit and loss restrictions for Dutch online gambling platforms. The objective is to prevent users from independently raising their limits, thereby enhancing safeguards for players.

The Dutch government's steadfast focus on player welfare is evident through these legislative efforts. By implementing bans on indiscriminate advertising and contemplating deposit limits, policymakers aim to effectively mitigate the risks associated with gambling addiction.

The Dutch gambling regulator, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), highlights stringent age verification protocols for targeted ads and expects operators to adhere to strict compliance guidelines. Additional efforts include required communication with users who set deposit limits and promoting financial transparency in euros.

Industry Response

While regulatory measures intensify, industry stakeholders express concerns about the potential repercussions on public perception of gambling. Peter-Paul de Goeij, chairman of the Dutch Online Gambling Association (NOGA), cautions against measures that could tarnish the industry's image.

As the Netherlands grapples with evolving regulatory dynamics, the gambling industry braces for transformative changes in advertising and operational protocols. The outcome of the upcoming parliamentary vote and subsequent legislative actions will profoundly influence the country's gambling landscape.

Peter-Paul de Goeij, chairman of the Dutch Online Gambling Association (NOGA), reported:“It is good that the minister clarifies the rules for safe gambling and thus makes the duty of care more concrete. At the same time, we must always be careful that legal gambling is not made too unattractive. We will study the proposal carefully and make suggestions to improve it and thus achieve the desired effects."

Meanwhile, Helma Lodders, chairman of the Licensed Dutch Online Gaming Providers (VNLOK), emphasized two areas of Weerwind's letter that required additional review. He added: "Firstly, that imposed measures are actually effective in keeping the number of problem players as small as possible." Secondly, that the legal offer remains sufficiently attractive for the vast majority of players who participate in a responsible manner. The latter is important to prevent them from returning to the illegal supply."

Source:

''Netherlands motion for complete gambling advertising ban submitted'', igamingbusiness.com, February 9, 2024.