NOGA Warns Against Proposed Gambling Tax Increase in the Netherlands

Concerns Over Tax Hike Impact

The Dutch government’s decision to incrementally raise the gambling tax has sparked alarm within the regulated gambling industry.

While the phased approach suggests some recognition of the potential negative effects on both gambling policy goals and tax revenues, industry leaders remain deeply concerned about the sustainability of the legal gambling market.

The tax increase, set to reach 37.8% by 2026, could threaten the existence of regulated operators.

NOGA and other industry bodies stress that the increase could lead to the collapse of regulated offerings, causing a drop in tax income while pushing consumers towards unregulated, riskier platforms.

This outcome would directly contradict the main objectives of Dutch gambling policy, which focuses on consumer protection, fraud prevention, and reducing gambling addiction.

An increase in illegal gambling could result in higher social costs and additional financial burdens for the government.

Call for Policy Alignment

In response, NOGA, VAN Kansspelen, and VNLOK are urging the government to reconsider its financial goals and align them with the core principles of the gambling policy.

The organisations advocate for a balanced approach that ensures a safe and regulated gambling environment while maintaining healthy revenue streams for the state.

They argue that the proposed tax rise could significantly strain the legal market, making it difficult for operators to remain viable.

The industry bodies are calling on the government to engage in dialogue with relevant stakeholders, ensuring that both societal interests and state revenues are protected.