Gaming in Holland Conference to Address Dutch Black Market Expansion
The 2025 Gaming in Holland Conference, set for June 5 in Amsterdam, will focus on the growing dominance of unlicensed operators in the Netherlands. With the Dutch Gambling Authority estimating that over half of online GGR now comes from the black market, the event aims to provide insights, legal perspectives, and strategic responses to the sector’s most pressing challenge.
Unlicensed Operators Gaining Market Share
In recent months, regulatory tightening and increased tax pressure have contributed to a significant rise in unlicensed gambling activity. The Netherlands Gambling Authority now estimates that illegal operators are responsible for more than 50% of the country’s total online gross gaming revenue—a trend that will be a central topic at the conference.
Key speakers include Nederlandse Loterij CEO Arjan Blok, who will address his company’s civil proceedings against Costa Rica-based LalaBet, and Renske Fikkers, Head of Market Supervision at the regulator, who will outline enforcement measures. Their presentations will shed light on how regulators and licensed operators are responding to illegal market growth.
Market Analysis and Industry Strategy
Josh Hodgson, COO at H2 Gambling Capital, will present the latest figures on the offshore market and share growth projections. Investigative journalist Henk Willem Smits will explore the operational structures of black-market platforms, while Tipico’s Christian Heins will discuss how licensed companies can challenge illegal operators by engaging B2B providers.
Breakout Sessions for Practical Solutions
Alongside the main-stage program, attendees can participate in five focused breakout sessions, including:
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Dutch B2B Licensing – Magno Neiva (Altenar)
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Bonuses and Player Protection – Joris Crone (Franssen Tolboom Advocaten)
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Responsible Player Engagement – Janez Dovžan (Bragg Gaming Group)
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Platform Technology Trends – Brian Forth (Finnplay Technologies)
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Compliance Testing Lessons – Sander Hoogendoorn (Trisigma)
Networking Opportunities in Amsterdam
The conference also offers networking events, including a boat tour through Amsterdam’s canals and an evening reception at Holland Casino Amsterdam, providing opportunities to connect with decision-makers in the regulated Dutch market.