Eric Konings to Step Down as Interim Director of NOGA

Leadership Transition at NOGA

Konings assumed the role in July last year, stepping in for Peter-Paul de Goeij, who led the association for six years. His departure coincides with a broader strategic realignment within the organization aimed at enhancing the representation of online gambling operators in the Dutch market.

In his statement, Konings expressed appreciation for the support he received during his tenure, stating:

“I will continue to work towards the objectives of NOGA for the remainder of my directorship, but for now, I would like to thank the board for the trust they have placed in me. Thank you, Remko, Sanna, and the rest of the board – it was truly an honour to represent you, and the other members, as director.”

Konings also highlighted the regulatory challenges facing the Dutch online gambling sector, with increasing scrutiny on the licensing system and calls for stricter regulations.

“The industry faces major political and administrative challenges. The legitimacy of the licensing system is increasingly under pressure, but I remain convinced that such a system is the best way to guarantee consumer protection. I am happy to help organisations navigate this situation”, he noted.

Regulatory Landscape in the Netherlands

The Dutch online gambling sector is facing increasing regulatory pressures, with authorities considering further restrictions.

Legal protections minister Teun Struycken is evaluating additional measures, including a potential total ban on gambling advertisements, building on the current prohibition of untargeted ads. Some lawmakers are also advocating for the introduction of a universal loss limit to curb gambling-related harm.

The Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), the Netherlands’ gambling regulator, is working on enhancing player protection by exploring new harm indicators aimed at improving problem gambling prevention and treatment.

Earlier this year, the regulator introduced a revised fines policy, setting clearer guidelines for imposing financial penalties on operators, reinforcing its commitment to ensuring compliance within the market.