Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), the Dutch gaming regulator, has issued a stark warning against gaming machines entering the illegal market.
The regulator revealed it is monitoring developments after several casino branches closed down due to ongoing pressure in the Dutch market, including an increase in gambling tax.
As a result, gaming machines from the failed venues are being auctioned or sold, and the KSA reminded buyers that they must hold the necessary licence to operate the machines.
“When gaming halls close and licensed operation stops, it is very important that the gaming machines present do not end up in the illegal circuit,” noted the regulator.
“It is important that buyers do not operate these slot machines without the necessary licences. The KSA has therefore sent a letter to all buyers in which the rules are clearly explained.”
Beginning on 1 January 2025, income taxes on gambling businesses rose to 34.2% from 30.5%, with a further increase planned to 37.8% in 2026.
At the time of the announcement of the changes in September 2024, Eric Konings, Interim General Secretary of the gambling trade body NOGA, stated his concern for the intervention, arguing that the increase will lead to a “further depletion” of the regulated supply.
“This will harm the general policy objectives of Dutch gambling policy, which focus on consumer protection and the prevention of fraud, crime, and gambling addiction. If this is abandoned, social costs will rise, leading to additional financial setbacks,” Konings added.
Following the announcement, Flutter Entertainment pulled its Tombola.nl brand from the Dutch market, citing the tax hike as a reason for the decision.
The KSA will work alongside Regional Information and Expertise Centres (RIECs), police and municipalities to address the issues and has already taken action against such infractions in 2025.
Following investigations in Hoogeveen and Papendrecht alongside the Dutch police, the KSA seized slot machines and roulette tables.
Earlier in the year, Dutch authorities also shut down several illegal poker tournaments across Amsterdam, Asten, The Hague, Rotterdam and Tilburg, recovering tens of thousands of euros in cash in the process.
Additionally, the KSA also imposed a €110,000 penalty on the organiser of unlicensed poker.
