In the first half of 2025, the Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), the Dutch gambling regulator, reported a 16 per cent year-on-year decline in gross gaming revenue (GGR) within the Netherlands’ regulated online gambling market, amounting to approximately €600 million. This marks the first annual decline since the country’s igaming sector became regulated in October 2021.
Despite a rise in the number of registered player accounts from 1.18 million in the second half of 2024 to 1.29 million by the end of June 2025, the average expenditure per player decreased. This reduction is attributed to stricter deposit restrictions implemented in the latter part of 2024. According to the KSA, the average monthly losses per player fell from €146 at the close of 2024 to €119.
There is an underlying concern that these tighter regulations might be driving players towards unlicensed platforms. The regulator noted a decline in the proportion of licensed GGR relative to channelisation, dropping from 51 per cent in December to 49 per cent by January.
This downturn in revenue seems to highlight a continuation of a trend that began in the latter half of 2024. While the overall revenue for 2024 increased by 6 per cent year-on-year, reaching €1.47 billion, the second half of the year saw a 10 per cent decrease compared to the first half. In contrast, 2023 witnessed a robust 28 per cent year-on-year increase in Dutch online gross gaming revenue, totaling €1.39 billion.
The increase in the Dutch gambling tax, initiated in January, has been cited by the KSA as a significant factor contributing to this decline. The tax rate was elevated from 30.5 per cent to 34.2 per cent at the start of the year and is expected to rise further to 37.8 per cent in 2026. The KSA observed that the impact of this tax hike has been particularly pronounced in the land-based gambling sector, where there was a reported year-on-year decrease of 9 per cent in the number of gaming venues during the first quarter of 2025. This decline has accelerated an average annual decrease of 6 per cent observed from 2020 to 2025.
Industry analysts suggest that the increased tax burden and tighter regulations could potentially stifle growth in the market. The sentiment among operators is one of caution; many express concerns over the sustainability of current business models under stricter regulatory conditions. For instance, one industry insider remarked, the current environment poses challenges that necessitate adaptation and innovation by operators to maintain profitability.
Conversely, consumer advocates and regulatory bodies argue that these measures are essential for protecting consumers and ensuring responsible gambling. The KSA’s focus on reducing problem gambling and preventing financial harm is seen as a priority that outweighs short-term revenue considerations. Some believe that in the long run, a more sustainable and consumer-friendly market will emerge, benefiting both players and operators.
The debate over the balance between regulation and market growth is ongoing. While some industry stakeholders advocate for a more liberalised approach to stimulate growth and competitiveness, others emphasize the need for maintaining stringent controls to safeguard players and uphold market integrity.
Looking ahead, the Dutch gambling market is poised for further transformation. As regulatory measures continue to evolve, both challenges and opportunities are expected to arise. Operators will likely need to innovate and adapt to these changes to thrive in a more regulated environment.
In conclusion, the decline in Dutch online gambling revenue underscores the complex interplay between regulatory policies and market dynamics. As the industry navigates these changes, the focus remains on achieving a balance that supports both economic growth and player safety. The coming years will be crucial in shaping the future of the Netherlands’ gambling sector, as stakeholders work towards a model that ensures both profitability and responsible gaming practices.
