Dutch Gambling Revenues Reach €4 Billion
The Dutch gaming industry has reported a significant increase in gambling revenues, reaching €4 billion following the legalization of online betting in October 2021.
Diversification Boosts Earnings Across Casinos, Lotteries, and Sports Betting
Since the ban on online betting was lifted, licensed operators have benefited from the convenience and accessibility of online platforms. The industry has seen a 20% year-on-year increase in gambling returns, indicating robust growth across various sectors.
The industry’s earnings are not solely dependent on online betting. Licensed casinos hold the largest market share at 33%, followed closely by lotteries at 30%. Sports betting, although representing 9% of total revenue, has also contributed to the overall increase, showcasing the sector’s diversification to meet consumer preferences.
A notable trend is the increased participation of individuals aged 18 to 23, who now account for 10.8% of spending on betting sites, up from 9.6% in the latter half of 2023. This shift has prompted concerns about the potential for addiction and the long-term impact on younger populations.
The surge in gambling activities has coincided with a 28% rise in the number of people seeking help for gambling addiction. There has been a 16% increase in clients seeking support services on a like-for-like basis, highlighting the need for enhanced responsible gambling measures.
Political Pressure Mounts for Stricter Online Gambling Controls
The growth of the industry has led to criticism from certain political parties. The center-right Christian Democrats (CDA) and the orthodox Protestant SGP have called for a complete ban on online gambling, stating that legalization has resulted in “only negative consequences.” They cite concerns over financial problems linked to gambling and associations between gambling addiction and suicide.
In response to these concerns, more people are calling for the gambling industry to do more to prevent underage access to gambling. While parties like ChristenUnie and NSC are not pushing for a total ban, they believe that companies need to take greater responsibility and implement better safeguards.
