New penalty rules for the Kansspelautoriteit: Fines of up to 2 million euros and 3% turnover penalty
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2 Jan 2025 •
Reading time: 2 minutes As of 1 January, something important has changed for providers of games of chance. The Dutch Gaming Authority ( Kansspelautoriteit / Ksa ) has introduced a new penalty policy. With this, the supervisory authority wants to take clearer and stricter action against offenders. For companies in the gambling industry, this means more transparency but also stricter sanctions for mistakes. This policy is not just a small adjustment. It can have major consequences for everyone who falls under the supervision of the Ksa.
The new rules apply to all kinds of violations, from illegal online gambling platforms to unregistered slot machines. However, separate rules will continue to exist for specific matters, such as gambling terminals. The reason? These categories require a different approach and have their own systems.
How high can the fines be?
The new policy has five categories. The lowest fine starts at €500, but in the heaviest category this can go up to €2 million. And that’s not all: in some cases the fine can also be a percentage of the gross turnover, up to 3%. This makes the punishment for major players extra severe. The Ksa is particularly strict in the case of violations of the Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing (Prevention) Act (Wwft). These types of fines should send a clear signal to companies. Play fairly or pay the price.
A look into the future according to Michel Groothuizen
According to Michel Groothuizen, chairman of the Ksa, it’s all about professionalization.
“We have learned a lot since the opening of the online gambling market in 2021. We now have enough experience to implement a strong and well-considered fine policy.”
Groothuizen believes that this approach not only provides companies with clarity, but also motivates them to stay within the rules.
“We want to prevent companies from getting into trouble in the first place.”
What does this mean for gambling providers?
For everyone who is active in the gambling world, these changes are a wake-up call. The Ksa does not only want to hand out fines. But also encourage companies to get their affairs in order. This is not only good for the gambling market itself. Also for players who count on safe and fair gaming conditions.
What does this mean in concrete terms? Companies will have to pay more attention to staying within the rules. Because although the rules are now clearer, the punishment for violations is heavier than ever.