Netherlands Prepares for Gambling Reforms: New Bill Expected by End 2025

The Dutch gambling industry is poised for a overhaul as the government gears up to introduce a new gambling bill by the close of 2025. This forthcoming legislation aims to address growing concerns about gambling-related harm and strengthen player protection measures. A key proposal within this bill is the suggestion to raise the minimum age for participating in online slots to 21, signalling a shift towards more stringent regulations in the Netherlands’ gambling sector.

State Secretary for Legal Protection, Teun Struycken, has been at the forefront of these developments, working to craft an updated gambling policy. The impetus for this reform stems from a comprehensive review initiated by the government last year, which revealed that existing measures to promote responsible gambling and safeguard players were falling short of their intended goals.

The Dutch government’s decision to overhaul its gambling regulations comes in response to a growing recognition that the existing framework, particularly the Remote Gambling Act, has not achieved its primary objectives. The act, which was intended to create a sustainable and safe gambling market, has been found wanting in several key areas.

Shortcomings of the Current System

1. Inadequate Player Protection: Despite measures in place, vulnerable individuals, especially young adults, remain at risk of developing problematic gambling behaviours.
2. Limited Effectiveness of Responsible Gambling Initiatives: Current programmes aimed at promoting responsible gambling have not yielded the desired results, necessitating a more robust approach.
3. Challenges in Market Sustainability: The existing regulatory environment has struggled to foster a truly sustainable gambling market that balances commercial interests with social responsibility.
4. Rising Concerns About Gambling Harm: There has been a notable increase in gambling-related issues, including addiction and financial distress, prompting calls for more stringent controls.

In light of these challenges, the Dutch government initiated a comprehensive review of its gambling policies. This evaluation, completed in November, highlighted the need for significant changes to address the shortcomings of the current system. The findings of this review have formed the foundation for the proposed new gambling bill, which aims to rectify these issues and establish a more robust regulatory framework.