Regulator 2.0: KSA wants more cooperation and more control
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11 Jun 2025 •
Reading time: 2 minutes The Dutch Gambling Regulatory Authority (KSA) has unveiled its ‘Regulator 2.0’ vision, promising greater cooperation with operators to combat the black market. However, it warns that persistent breaches of advertising rules could lead to a total ban on gambling ads.
KSA launches “Regulator 2.0”: More support, but more control
At the Gaming in Holland Conference 2025, Renske Fikkers, head of the KSA’s regulatory department, presented a new approach dubbed ‘Regulator 2.0’. The aim? To break away from the image of a distant and punitive authority in favour of an open dialogue with operators.
“We understand that certain measures require adaptability. In the event of unforeseen obstacles, a transparent exchange helps us to strengthen regulation.”
However, this willingness to cooperate comes with an unequivocal warning: if operators do not comply with the advertising rules, a total ban could be envisaged.
Threat of a total advertising ban
Fikkers pointed out that repeated breaches of advertising rules are fuelling the debate in favour of a complete ban.
“I still see breaches of advertising rules all too often. The resulting outrage makes a total ban increasingly realistic.”
In May 2025, the KSA already banned sports sponsorships for gambling operators, a measure that will come into force in July.
Next licensing round in 2026: History taken into account
The KSA also spoke about future licence applications (2026), stating that operators’ past behaviour, good or bad, will be examined.
“We are working with the associations to anticipate the challenges of future applications. Our aim is to make the process as smooth as possible.”
Collaboration from banks and tech giants
At the same conference, Björn Fuchs, director of VNLOK (the Dutch legal gambling association), urged banks, Google and Meta to block illegal sites.
‘These companies have the technical means to prevent illegal sites from targeting Dutch consumers.’
Arjan Blok, CEO of the Nederlandse Loterij, chimed in, calling for more powers for the KSA, including:
- Blacklisting illegal sites
- Removing unauthorised ads and applications
- Blocking payments to illegal operators
The Dutch lottery has taken legal action against Lalabet, an operator based in Costa Rica, to have it removed from the market once and for all.
The KSA positions itself as a partner for dialogue, but remains uncompromising about compliance with the rules. If operators fail to comply, a total ban on advertising and increased penalties could be imposed.
In the meantime, the fight against the black market also involves mobilising banks and technology platforms. The ball is now in the court of the various players to avoid a radical tightening of regulation.