René Jansen Addresses Pressing Matters in Dutch Gaming Industry, Including Possible NLO Privatisation

In his latest speech delivered in Amsterdam, René Jansen, the outgoing Chairman of the Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), the Dutch Gaming Authority, addressed several pressing issues facing the Dutch gaming industry. Among the key topics discussed were the potential ban on online gambling advertisements, the crackdown on illegal gambling activities, and the possible privatisation of the Nederlandse Loterij (NLO).

Jansen began his speech by addressing the recent call to ban all online gambling advertisements, which was further escalated by the House of Representatives' demand to prohibit any online gaming with a very high risk of addiction. He acknowledged the shift in the majority view of the House of Representatives regarding the regulation of the online market, stating, "It is clear: the view of a majority of the House of Representatives on the regulation of the online market has clearly changed. And what the future will look like is still unclear."

The KSA has been focusing its efforts on tackling illegal gambling activities, with many of its inspectors dedicating their time to investigations. Jansen highlighted the success of these efforts, mentioning the takedown of several large-scale illegal operations, including illegal bingo rings. He noted, "In this way, we also increase awareness about illegal physical gambling. We are already seeing the results of these actions in practice: the number of reports to our information line of illegal bingos, lotteries and poker tournaments is steadily increasing."

In addition to these investigations, the KSA sent inspectors to 20 gaming halls across the country in unannounced visits. While they anticipated some resistance from the staff, Jansen reported that "we heard several times how pleasant owners or operators found it that we also came to take a look behind the scenes. I think that's worth a compliment."

Despite the steps taken to improve compliance, Jansen expressed concern that "the implementation does not always match the good intentions that are spoken out loud." One notable example of this was the self-exclusion programme, Cruks. Many casinos were found to be easily accessible, even to those who were on the register, with staff often unaware of their ability to add someone to the register themselves.

Jansen then turned his attention to the possible privatisation of NLO, describing it as "an extremely serious matter." While he refrained from anticipating the outcome of the upcoming discussion at the Administrative Jurisdiction Division of the Council of State, he emphasized the potential far-reaching consequences of the decision. He stressed the undesirability of being forced to make hasty decisions on relevant permit applications within a short timeframe.

The KSA has requested the Division to suspend the judgment of the District Court of Oost-Brabant until a decision has been made on the appeal, which was granted last Friday. Jansen concluded by stating, "To be continued!"

As the Dutch gaming industry navigates these challenging times, the KSA remains committed to upholding the integrity of the sector and protecting consumers from the risks associated with gambling. The potential privatisation of NLO and the ongoing discussions surrounding online gambling advertisements and illegal activities will undoubtedly shape the future of the industry in the Netherlands.