Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), the Dutch gambling regulator, has released its autumn monitoring report revealing a complex landscape in the Netherlands’ online gambling industry. Despite increasing participation in licensed gaming activities, the total revenue from legal channels has decreased, sparking concerns about the growing influence of illegal operators.
In the first half of 2025, the Dutch online gambling market saw a gross gaming revenue (GGR) of €600 million, a notable decline from €697 million in the final six months of the previous year. KSA attributes this drop primarily to the introduction of new deposit limits designed to curb excessive spending and enhance player safety. The new regulations aim to promote responsible gambling by limiting the amount players can deposit, thus reducing the risks of significant financial losses.
However, this regulatory change has had unforeseen consequences. While there has been a slight uptick in the number of participants — with 5.7% of Dutch adults engaging in online gambling compared to 5.4% in the earlier period — the share of money gambled through licensed operators decreased from 51% to 49%. This trend suggests that many players might be lured to unlicensed websites that offer fewer restrictions and more enticing incentives. Such platforms often provide bonuses and promotions that are not available in the regulated market, making them appealing despite their illegal status.
Additionally, the report highlights that the rise in new accounts does not necessarily mean more individuals are entering the gambling market. Many current gamblers are creating multiple accounts across different platforms, potentially as a strategy to circumvent the imposed deposit limits. This behavior indicates that while regulations intend to promote safer gambling practices, they may inadvertently push players towards unregulated options.
On a positive note, the report shows that average monthly losses per player have decreased, dropping from €146 at the end of 2024 to €119 in the latest period. Notably, young adults aged 18–24 continue to exhibit the lowest average losses, spending approximately €37 monthly on gambling. They account for nearly a quarter (23%) of all active accounts, suggesting that younger players are either more cautious or have less disposable income to gamble with.
In response to these findings, the KSA plans to implement additional measures to solidify the market’s integrity. Starting in 2026, any company applying for an online gambling license must include an “exit plan” in their application. This document will detail how the operator plans to responsibly exit the market if their license is not renewed, thereby promoting greater accountability and transparency within the sector.
Despite these advancements in promoting responsible gaming, the regulator remains concerned about the expanding illegal market. The KSA has committed to closely monitoring the situation and increasing its enforcement efforts to ensure that Dutch players remain within the safer confines of the regulated industry. The challenge lies in balancing consumer protection while preventing the market from being overshadowed by unlicensed operators.
Critics, however, argue that the stricter regulations might push more players towards illegal operators. The allure of unrestricted play and lucrative bonuses can be difficult to resist, especially for those who feel constrained by the legal market’s limitations. They suggest that a more flexible regulatory framework could help retain players within the licensed market, potentially reducing the appeal of illegal sites.
On the other hand, proponents of the new measures believe that prioritizing player safety and responsible gambling is crucial, even if it means a temporary decline in GGR. They argue that long-term sustainability of the industry hinges on creating a safe and transparent environment, which will ultimately build trust and loyalty among players.
The Dutch gambling market stands at a crossroads, with the KSA striving to bolster the legal framework while combating the draw of the illegal market. As the industry evolves, the regulator’s strategies will be crucial in shaping the future of online gambling in the Netherlands. Balancing regulation with market dynamics will be key to ensuring that players have access to safe and fair gaming options. The coming years will reveal whether these efforts will succeed in fortifying the regulated market and curbing the influence of illegal operators.
Sarah Thompson is a seasoned writer specializing in casino gaming and online gambling. With over a decade of experience in the industry, Sarah brings in-depth knowledge and a keen eye for detail to her work at CasinoNoDeposits.com. Her expertise lies in uncovering the latest no deposit bonuses and providing comprehensive reviews of online casinos. Passionate about helping players maximize their gaming experience, Sarah combines her analytical skills with a flair for engaging storytelling.
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