Increased vigilance regarding the resale of slot machines
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5 May 2025 •
Reading time: 2 minutes The Kansspelautoriteit (Ksa), the Dutch gaming regulator, has recently stepped up its surveillance of the resale of second-hand slot machines. This measure follows the closure of several gaming halls as a direct consequence of the increase in tax on gambling. These closures resulted in a large amount of gaming equipment being put up for sale, particularly professional slot machines.
The Ksa has expressed its concern that this equipment could end up in illegal circuits. To prevent this from happening, the authority has sent letters to potential buyers, informing them of the regulations in force and the risks involved if they fail to comply.
Legal requirements for the operation of slot machines
The operation of slot machines in the Netherlands is subject to strict regulations. Two types of permit are required:
- Operating licence: Issued by the Ksa, this licence assesses the addiction prevention policy, the ban on access by minors and the integrity of the operators.
- Presence permit: Granted by the local municipality, this authorises the installation of slot machines in specific establishments.
Failure to obtain these permits exposes operators to severe penalties, including confiscation and destruction of equipment.
Recent cases illustrate the Ksa’s strict measures
Earlier this year, the Ksa, in collaboration with the police, dismantled an illegal casino in Hoogeveen, seizing dozens of unlicensed slot machines. The KSA also has the power to confiscate and destroy illegal equipment. In early 2025, it destroyed machines and a roulette table seized during an investigation in Papendrecht, preventing them from being reintroduced onto the market.
Call for vigilance and responsibility on the part of buyers
The Ksa is urging potential buyers of second-hand slot machines to check the legality of their purchases carefully. It is recommended that experts in gambling regulation be consulted before any transaction.
If there is any doubt or suspicion of illegal activity, the Ksa invites citizens to report incidents via its online form or by anonymously contacting the Meld Misdaad Anoniem service on 0800-7000.The resale of second-hand slot machines, although legal under certain conditions, presents significant risks if it is not properly supervised. The Ksa continues to actively monitor the market to prevent any abuses and ensure the safety of players.