VNLOK Reports Dutch Gambling Market Failure To Meet Tax Revenue Targets

Dutch gambling trade body VNLOK has warned that the country’s regulated gambling market is at a “dangerous crossroads,” following a government report by the Ministry of Finance and the Netherlands Gambling Authority (KSA).

This release showed higher gambling taxes generated only €2 million in additional revenue during 2025, far below the projected €108 million. Officials also noted that stricter player protection rules and advertising restrictions made it difficult to determine how much of the decline was directly linked to higher tax rates.

VNLOK believes the report understates the seriousness of the situation.

Trade Body Warns Regulated Market Is Contracting Rapidly

Speaking to NEXT.io, VNLOK said the regulated Dutch gambling market fell by 18.5% during 2025. They also warned that policymakers have not recognised the consequences.

“The report clearly states that the financial objectives have not been reached,” VNLOK said. “The Dutch regulated market size declined 18.5% in 2025.”

While the association welcomed the publication of the findings, it criticised the government’s decision to wait until 2027 for a further evaluation instead of introducing immediate corrective measures.

VNLOK Calls For Faster Policy Action

VNLOK argues that delaying reforms could weaken the licensed market while driving more consumers toward unregulated operators.

“A declining regulated market goes hand in hand with a growing unregulated market,” the trade body said. “This will cause less consumer protection and more gambling related harm.

“The Dutch regulated market is at a dangerous crossroads. The combination of high tax pressure, high regulatory burdens and the risk of additional over-regulation will cause irreversible damage.”

VNLOK has issued a statement warning that the Dutch gambling market is facing pressure after generating revenue below the projected 108 million threshold. The body claims this outcome is a result of tighter player protection and advertising restrictions combined with higher tax rates.