Netherlands Gambling Reforms on Hiatus After Government Changes

The governing coalition of the Netherlands collapsed in dramatic fashion this week. Amongst many other proposals on the table, this has put the brakes on possible gambling reforms. So where doesThere are occasions when we here at ReadyBetGo want to bring you interesting facts about the gambling industry  When something catches our eye, we will publish it for your enjoyment. 
  that leave the industry? 

A four-party coalition government has been governing the Netherlands for the last year. One of its priorities has been a reform of the gambling sector, which it had announced was failing those it was set up to protect. Yet the government has now fallen apart, leaving these changes, and the industry, hanging in limbo. So what is next for the Dutch iGaming sector? 

Disagreements in the Dutch Government

At the start of June, the coalition government of the Netherlands fell apart. The leader of the PVV, Geert Wilders, walked out of a meeting with Prime Minister Dick Schoof. Wilders then announced on social media that its party was withdrawing its support from the government due to a disagreement over immigration policy. This was in regard to a policy his party had written that the other four parties refused to sign.  

This has left many planned changes and reforms hanging in the air, particularly when it comes to Dutch gambling laws. The country is already home to a vibrant iGaming scene, with operators such as Lucky Gem Casino providing slots and table games. Casinos like this also cater directly to a Dutch audience, tailoring everything from the language used to legislative compliance. Any changes will mean they have to adapt their strategy, something they will have been preparing for.  

After Wilders's comments, Prime Minister Schoof responded by saying the move was “irresponsible and unnecessary”. He then called for the resignation of all PVV MPs.  

What Were the Proposed Gambling Reforms? 

The main reforms seemed to concentrate on discussions over the rate of taxation. September's budget presented a plan to raise the rate of taxation to 30.5 percent for gambling. This was to be implemented in two stages. Thus, in some ways, this could be a good sign for gambling companies who may be able to stave off a tax hike while the government's fighting continues.  

Currently, Holland Casino is the only operator of physical casinos in the country. It announced that it had paid over 222 million euros in gambling taxes during 2023. Understandably, the company called for a scrapping of the plan. However, its main bugbear was that this did not align with the aims set forth by Teun Struycken’s plans to improve responsible gambling in the country. Holland Casino added, “With a total tax burden well over 50 percent of revenue, achieving that vision becomes unrealistic.”

 Besides Holland Casino having a monopoly on land-based enterprises, the online market in the Netherlands has been quite open. A Remote Gambling Act (KOA) was introduced in 2021. This saw both domestic and international operators begin to work in the country. Originally, there were 10 license holders. This has now moved to 30 and the industry is bringing in over 1 billion euros a year.  

Blanket Ad Ban for Gambling 

Another proposed change was a total blanket ban on gambling advertising. However, this was only a discussion from a talk at the Gaming in Holland Conference 2025. Renske Fikkers, head of the KSA, the Dutch Gambling Authority, spoke about an increased era of cooperation. However, this came with a stark warning: The sector must get itself in order or face a blanket advertising ban. 

He added that he often sees that regulatory advice on advertising is not being followed. This makes a total ban on advertising a very likely option, though it is something the KSA does not want to apply unless they have to. This was after a warning shot was fired in May when they provided a warning over gambling sponsorship in sports.  

The change in approach is being dubbed “Regulator 2.0.” Instead of being an unreachable organization, it will work alongside the sector to resolve issues. This will be more flexible and open to tackle the most prominent issues.  

When Will Current Laws Change?

One thing certain is that the next round of licensing applications is due to start in 2026. The regulator has said it will take previous history from companies into account, including any infringements they may have had.  

It seems that a general election will be called before the year is out. News agency Reuters has said this will be planned for October. Dick Schoof is hoping to maintain his role as Prime Minister, in which case these reforms may take up where they left off. Right-wing politician Gert Wilders will take a harsher approach should he go for the role and win. In any case, it seems that changes are on hold until 2026 at the very least, and any legislation brought in then may not happen until 2027 or beyond.