The Dutch online gambling market is experiencing notable shifts as prominent operators LiveScore Malta Limited and Tombola International Malta PLC exit the scene. The Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), the Netherlands' gambling authority, confirmed that both companies requested the withdrawal of their online gambling licenses, effective December 23, 2024.
These departures highlight the increasing challenges faced by operators in the Dutch market, including rising taxes and stringent regulatory requirements. In recent years, the Netherlands has intensified its regulatory framework to ensure player protection and market integrity. This includes higher taxation rates and rigorous compliance standards, making it increasingly difficult for some operators to maintain profitability.
According to the KSA's 2024 Market Scan, the online casino sector experienced a 34% growth in 2023, with gross gaming revenue (BSR) increasing by €311 million. Despite this growth, the land-based casino market has not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels.
The KSA has been proactive in monitoring the market's evolution. In its Spring 2024 Monitoring Report, the authority noted that the gross gaming revenue for the online market reached €1.39 billion by the end of 2023, up from €1.08 billion in 2022.
The exits of LiveScore Malta and Tombola International underscore the complexities of operating within the Dutch online gambling landscape. As the KSA continues to enforce strict regulations and the government considers further tax increases, operators must carefully evaluate their strategies to navigate this challenging environment.
