Go Dutch! A new gambling bill in the Netherlands

Monday, 18 Feb, 2013

The Dutch government is taking steps to legalize online gambling in the country and update the state-owned gambling monopoly.

The new bill will allow foreign sites in the Netherlands as well as license off-shore operators and impose a 30% tax on casino revenues.

Although gambling is legal in the Netherlands, the government has had a strict monopoly on betting since the middle of the 70’s with Holland Casino, a state-controlled site and land-based venue. The government alludes that the public entity promotes fair play and controlled gambling for all users.

Holland Casino was opened more than 30 years ago and now has 14 venues across the country, which operate under the name Fair Play. Despite its success and efficient state control, the Dutch government has faced criticism from the EU Gambling Commission due to this closed market.

Still, many online casinos offer a Dutch-language version of their sites where gamblers are allowed to play, though these activities are ignored by the Netherlands’ Betting and Gaming Act.

Once this new gambling bill is passed by the Dutch parliament, licenses will be granted to foreign operators, and a tax will be officially levied on their activities.

Aside from that, Holland Casino will start developing the country’s online gambling infrastructure and seeking a joint venture with foreign companies. By the middle of 2013, the final decision on the off-shore operator will be made.