The Dutch Online Gaming Association (NOGA) has cautioned that a vote by the Dutch House of Representatives to outlaw online slot machines and online gambling promotion will drive players toward the illicit market.
NOGA emphasizes that the Dutch Parliament’s vote to ban all targeted advertising and prohibit “high-risk” gambling, including slot machines, is a “rash and irresponsible” choice. The organization also cautioned Dutch Minister of Legal Protection, Frank Weerwind, against making an irrevocable decision.
NOGA chairman Peter Paul de Goey stated that the House of Representatives’ decision was based on “inaccurate figures, suppositions, and unrealistic anxieties.” He added that Minister Weerwind has maintained composure thus far.
Despite the vote, the prohibition still needs to be codified into law. Weerwind will now examine it and determine whether to approve the legislation.
We depend on the outgoing and incoming administrations to maintain this prudent course, never compromising the safety of online gamers.
NOGA: Prohibition will compel players to seek out foreign operators
Past efforts to completely prohibit gambling ads failed before Tuesday’s vote. Earlier this year, a complete ban on gambling-related advertising did not pass after a motion by MP Dirk Boswijk. However, Van Nieuwenhuizen’s new motion on advertising passed with 77 votes.
Meanwhile, on Tuesday, a motion to forbid “high-risk” online gambling passed with 79 votes.
NOGA estimates that 90% of Dutch players wager with legal providers. However, the association is worried that the new law will push gamblers back to the illicit market.
NOGA is concerned that the new advertising prohibition will confuse players, leaving them uncertain if they are playing with illegal providers.
“The House majority is taking a risky gamble on online players, who are now consciously selecting legal services,” De Gooijer explained.
“If we soon discover that politicians have made a hasty and incorrect decision, the House will be responsible for the negative consequences.”
Remote gambling legislation to be assessed in 2024
The Remote Gambling Act will be evaluated by the Dutch Ministry of Justice and Security later this year.
However, NOGA and De Gooijer assert that there is not yet sufficient data to conduct a proper assessment.
At present, due to a shortage of adequate data, informed choices cannot be made. As a result, comprehensive investigations are in progress. De Goeij stated, “Let’s await the outcomes of these studies, then engage in a meaningful dialogue and make choices to enhance the safeguarding of online participants from problematic gambling and gambling dependency.”
The Netherlands’ current gambling regulations
The Remote Gambling Act evaluation is not yet finished. Nevertheless, Weerwind has already commenced developing strategies to endeavor to shield players from gambling-related harm.
The Netherlands has prohibited non-targeted advertising, a restriction that came into effect in July 2023. Mass promotion through media such as television and radio is forbidden. Sports sponsorships are also prohibited, although the Netherlands is still undergoing a transition phase for existing sponsorship arrangements.
In October, Weerwind announced a nationwide initiative to combat digital deception in response to concerns about online gambling criminality.
At that time, Weerwind outlined in a letter: “Anyone who desires to participate should be able to play responsibly. However, responsible gaming can evolve into problematic gambling.”
Weerwind also introduced additional measures in December 2023. Providers will be obligated to communicate with bettors who establish a deposit limit of at least €350 (£303/$386). Operators will be required to notify players of the associated risks of gambling with such substantial amounts of money.
Moreover, CasinoNieuws reports that Weerwind suggests presenting sums in euros. Weerwind also promotes additional investigation into comprehensive gambling restrictions.
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