The Kansspelautoriteit has rolled-out its vision for the Dutch gaming market under the moniker, ‘Market vision for games of chance: market organisation and market supervision from the public interest’.

In the report, the Dutch gambling authority presented how organisation and supervision of market can be optimally designed through instruments such as licensing, regulation and information.

Based on the analysis, and in line with the modernisation agenda that started in 2011, the Ksa saw further room in the future for attractive games of chance offered by new providers.

The report also highlights that regulation of various sectors of gambling remains necessary to protect consumers, prevent gambling addictions and combat crime and illegality.

Furthermore, it was noted that, at the moment, there is no political support for a casino market with an indefinite number of providers. Yet, due to the rise in online providers in games of chance, it can be reconsidered but in conjunction with the market organisation and tightening of the regulations for slot machines.

Currently, there are two ‘special cases’ for slot machines. The first, a dexterity machine which has influence on the course of the game, where there is a possibility of an extended playing time or a free game will be one. The second, a ‘fair machine’ which does not pay out money, but other forms of prizes such as coupons or goods in kind with a value of up to 40 times the effort.

The report went on to highlight the potential issue with gaming among young children and adults and the lack of the same attention from policy makers compared to those in games of chance. It predicts: “It is reasonable to see future regulations of games with gambling elements so much possibly focus on the underlying risks. 

“In addition, it serves consumers’ distinction between games of skill and games of chance must always be clear. In front of it is underage youth, young adults and other vulnerable groups, a starting point that should never come into contact with games addictive gambling elements such as loot boxes.”

In the Netherlands, games of chance are regulated under the Games of Chance Act and the associated lower regulations. The original games of chance policy was characterised by restrictions, with the aim to have a limited number of providers with one provider per one type of game of chance. 

In 2017, following the Gaming Authority’s evaluation, it was recommended that the Ksa should draw up a vision of the market, with the aim of being maximally effective in its supervision.