Summary
- KSA reviews the initial phase of the new ban on gambling advertisements.
- The initiative aims to eliminate public gambling advertisements entirely and has been successful so far.
- The Netherlands continues to struggle with effectively curbing the influence of offshore gambling operators.
The Netherlands Gambling Authority has evaluated the impact of the newly implemented ban on gambling advertisements, which took effect on July 1, 2025. According to the regulator, by July 10, gambling advertisements in sports and public spaces had completely disappeared.
Strengthening market safeguards through the ad ban
This ban is part of a comprehensive plan by the regulator to protect consumers and ensure the market operates responsibly and sustainably. This recent measure builds on an existing law that took effect on July 1, 2023, which addressed the issue of untargeted gambling ads. Under the previous law, operators were prohibited from extending marketing materials to consumers unless they had explicitly agreed to be targeted. Now, the restrictions have become even stricter, encompassing public advertisements, particularly sports gambling sponsorships that involve displaying gambling companies’ logos. The government and the regulator have set a deadline of July 1, 2025, for all such partnerships to conclude, aiming to prevent an immediate severance of ties with sports teams. However, from this point forward, gambling firms will not be permitted to display their logos, partner with clubs or leagues, engage in shirt sponsorships, or collaborate with teams or athletes.
The Netherlands focuses on consumer protection
The KSA has acknowledged minor violations in the initial days but is confident that the regulated market has fully complied with the measure. This confidence reflects the watchdog's commitment to protecting at-risk and vulnerable consumers. However, the Netherlands faces a significant challenge: 50% of the country's gambling spending is directed offshore, despite more than 90% of gamblers choosing to play with regulated entities. (
