Gambling Ads Ban in The Netherlands Gains Ground

The Dutch government has decided to pursue the ban on gambling. gambling ads This idea has been on the agenda for a while, and now Franc Weerwind, the Minister for Legal Protection, has announced that the prohibition on non-targeted gambling ads will start on July 1, 2023.

In July 2022, Weerwind initially proposed eliminating gambling ads from public venues, television, and radio. However, in October, he pushed back the implementation to open further discussions, in accordance with legal requirements.

Weerwind previously assured that the ban would be in effect by July 1, 2023. Recent announcements have solidified this, settling a topic of significant interest.

Weerwind stated, 'Advertising is crucial to inform about the legal offerings of online gambling to prevent illegal play. Still, we must also shield vulnerable populations from the risks posed by online gaming.'

'With this ban, these vulnerable groups, especially youth, are less likely to encounter such advertisements, diminishing the allure to gamble online.' high-risk games of chance,” the minister added.

Starting July 1, 2023, advertising on radio, TV, and in public spaces will be banned, but online and on-demand TV ads will continue under strict oversight.

Operators are tasked with ensuring their advertisements do not target individuals under 24, as Dutch laws prohibit such marketing.

Additionally, it's required that at least 95% of an operator’s advertisements reach individuals aged 24 or older, with options for users to opt-out of receiving ads.

Critics like Ministry of Justice and Security spokesperson Charlotte Hees argue the blanket ban might drive customers toward illegal gambling sites. She claims the approach is excessively 'unrealistic,' potentially boosting unregulated gambling.

'Achieving the 95% requirement for those aged 24 and over is tough, but viable based on media assessments. Not all sites can comply, hence advertising there is banned,' Hees noted.

Current agreements, like those in the sports sectors, will remain in force until July 1, 2025, while TV sponsorship deals will last until July 1, 2024.