Dutch Government Delays Online Gambling Reforms Until 2027
The Dutch government has acknowledged the shortcomings in its online gambling regulations but will not implement reforms before 2027. State Secretary for Legal Protection Teun Struycken has announced plans for stricter oversight, including deposit limits and a potential increase in the minimum gambling age to 21.
Government Pushes for Stricter Rules
State Secretary Teun Struycken acknowledges that online gambling policies do not provide enough safeguards. “People are not sufficiently shielded from the risks,” he said, highlighting the dangers of high-risk gambling. He plans a fundamental policy shift, tightening financial controls and operator responsibilities.
Since the legalization of online gambling in 2021, participation has surged. Reports show that over 762,000 adults gambled €1 billion within a year. Young adults aged 18 to 24 represent a significant portion of online gamblers. Experts warn that addiction rates are rising, while gambling operators struggle to enforce financial limits and responsible gaming policies.
Proposed Measures and Delays
Struycken plans several key changes. The government will introduce a unified deposit limit across all platforms, making it harder for players to bypass restrictions. Operators will also face stricter duties regarding player protection. Additionally, the minimum gambling age for high-risk games may increase to 21. However, lawmakers will only start drafting legislation in late 2025, meaning no changes will take effect until at least 2027.
Critics argue that delaying these reforms puts more young people at risk. Without faster intervention, another generation could develop gambling-related problems before protections take effect.