Gambling in Belgium and the Netherlands: identical spending, divergent trends

A recent study has revealed striking similarities and notable differences in gambling habits between Belgians and the Dutch. Although citizens of both countries spend an average of 155 euros per year on gambling, excluding lotteries, a more in-depth analysis reveals distinct trends in their preferences and gambling behaviors.

A thriving gambling market

According to figures from the gambling commission, the Belgian gambling market generated a turnover of 1.458 billion euros in 2022. With an adult population of 9.361 million, this represents an average expenditure of 155 euros per person, of which 85 euros are attributed to online games. These figures suggest a strong inclination for online gambling in Belgium.

In parallel, the Dutch gambling market reached 2.229 billion euros, with a similar average expenditure of 155 euros per adult. However, the Kansspelautoriteit, the Dutch regulatory authority, indicates that the land-based market remains slightly dominant over the online sector.

Details of the gambling sectors

Although overall spending is equivalent, the distribution between land-based and online games varies between the two countries. The Netherlands shows a marked preference for land-based games (52.7%) as opposed to Belgium, where the online sector dominates with 54.9%.

Differences also extend to the types of games. In Belgium, online sports betting is more popular, while in the Netherlands, the focus is more on land-based casino games. This divergence reflects different cultural and regulatory approaches to gambling.

Online player profiles

Regarding online games, the data indicate that Belgian players spend between 90 and 121 euros per month, while the Dutch spend about 108 euros per month. These figures highlight a more active participation of Belgian players in online gambling, despite similar annual average expenditures.

Implications and perspectives

These data not only shed light on players’ consumption habits but also the economic and cultural impact of gambling in these two countries. As the sector continues to evolve, these insights could prove crucial for operators and regulators in adapting their strategies to the specificities of each market.

In conclusion, while average gambling expenditures are similar in Belgium and the Netherlands, the differences in preferences and gambling habits offer a fascinating insight into the cultural and economic dynamics of these two neighboring countries.