Dutch Regulator Signals Stricter Rules and Focus on Player Safety

Regulatory Direction Shifts Towards Risk Management

Renske Fikkers highlighted the government’s renewed vision of gambling as a “high-risk product,” reflecting a wider societal shift in perception. She noted that this new direction, introduced by State Secretary Struycken, is driven by concerns that current policies fail to adequately protect players—especially minors and young adults. Fikkers warned that the new approach will lead to stricter regulations, potentially including raising the minimum age for high-risk gambling to 21 and implementing deposit limits across the board.

“The main premise here is to protect all citizens from the risks of the negative effects of gambling, such as addiction or debt.”

Stronger Enforcement and First Duty-of-Care Fine

Fikkers cited the Ksa’s first public fine under the duty-of-care framework—a €734,000 penalty imposed on an operator that allowed young adults to lose tens of thousands of euros without sufficient intervention. She emphasized that this type of enforcement reflects a hardening stance:

“That total lack of consideration for vulnerable players was at odds with the original approach of legalisation and for that reason the reins are now being tightened.”

Evolving Regulator–Operator Relationship

The Ksa is redefining its role, aiming to become a more approachable and cooperative regulator. Fikkers acknowledged improvements in communication and praised operators who have taken steps beyond legal requirements, such as limiting deposit increases for young adults and adjusting affordability assessments.

She also spoke about new roundtable discussions, which have allowed for open dialogue around policy implementation. According to Fikkers, this new format has helped address unforeseen obstacles and improve regulatory clarity.

“Those conversations were of great value to us… Infringements are quickly stopped and communicating openly about them sets an example for other operators.”

Striking at the Illegal Market

Tackling illegal gambling remains a top priority. The Ksa has launched a new project focused on disrupting the infrastructure of unlicensed operators by using similar digital tools and strategies. These include targeting websites, social media ads, and payment channels that facilitate access to illegal platforms.

Fikkers underscored the urgency, noting that only 50% of gross gambling revenue is currently captured by the legal market.

“For every euro spent at legal operators, one euro disappears into the pocket of illegal parties at the same time.”

Preparing for the Next Licensing Round

Looking ahead to the 2026 licensing round, Fikkers made it clear that past performance will influence future approvals. The Ksa will not automatically renew existing licenses, especially for operators with a history of regulatory breaches.

“Some behaviours are unacceptable and could affect licence renewal. These are not empty words on our part.”

Strengthening Consumer Protection

The Ksa is also investing in internal restructuring, including the creation of a dedicated department for gambling harm prevention. This team will lead awareness campaigns and expand support services such as Loket Kansspel and the Cruks self-exclusion register.

Fikkers reaffirmed the core objective of regulation: ensuring a safe, sustainable gambling environment for Dutch players.

“We are working towards a stable, safe gambling market that is worthwhile for operators but that focuses above all on the safety of Dutch players.”