The Netherlands is once again considering introducing stricter gambling regulations. This time, a complete ban on iGaming ads and bonuses seems to be on the table.
New Regulations Have Been Proposed
The Netherlands, which has cemented itself as one of Europe’s strictest gambling regimes, is now mulling over a ban on online gambling ads and bonuses. The new proposals, announced by Justice and Security State Secretary Claudia van Bruggen, also envision stricter deposit limit rules, affordability checks, and expanded regulatory powers against the black market.
Bruggen emphasized that the proposed restrictions are a response to the disconcerting gambling harm rates in the country. Since its re-regulation, the Dutch market has been experiencing some issues with harm, especially among younger players. Because of that, experts believe that banning ads and inducements would reduce some of the country’s gambling problems.
At the same time, the affordability measures outlined in the proposal would make sure that players don’t spend more than they can afford.
The government is furthermore eyeing self-exclusion changes, under which voluntary self-exclusions would not end immediately once the set period expires and would instead continue until players decide to turn them off. Another proposal is allowing relatives to request a loved one’s self-exclusion.
One of the most important proposals, however, is allowing regulators to block unlicensed gambling websites.
The proposals will now be developed into a bill that will be proposed for deliberation at a later date.
The Dutch Regulations Are Already Strict
The Netherlands already boasts some of the strictest regulations in Europe. The country previously banned untargeted ads to shield its players from harm, before also restricting sports sponsorships with gambling companies.
In addition to that, the Netherlands prohibits ads from featuring personalities that could appeal to younger players or minors in order to prevent the youth from developing bad habits.
Critics, however, have implied that the Netherlands might be over-regulating the market, causing some adverse effects. They said that many of the mulled measures, especially a blanket ad ban, would make legal companies less competitive, thus empowering the black market.
While blocking illegal operators might mitigate some of the black market-related issues, critics believe that the Dutch government should tread lightly. This comes in the wake of recent tax hikes that ended up hurting the industry. Because of that, the Dutch Lottery encouraged lawmakers to reject further gambling tax hike proposals.
