Struycken addressed inquiries from House member Michiel Van Nispen while replying to questions [here](https://open.overheid.nl/documenten/dpc-11ea788e92ba0987bd51a2dc1e784bf28384eb09/pdf). The discussion revolved around land-based gambling issues and the appropriateness of the current policy framework.
Van Nispen highlighted that the Remote Gambling Act has intensified competition in the Dutch online market, resulting in what he described as “unwanted financial incentives” within the industry.
Conversely, he noted that no such competition exists in the land-based sector, where Holland Casino holds a monopoly, prompting him to question whether additional licensed operators should be introduced into this market.
Struycken is working on updating the policy, which was originally set in 2011, and is considering ways to enhance competition in the land-based sector.
“I plan to share my vision concerning the future path and objectives of gambling policy by March 2025,” stated Struycken. “This will encompass thoughts about market competition.”
### Could the State Relinquish Holland Casino?
Van Nispen also inquired about the state’s role with Holland Casino, noting that it remains under state ownership. Struycken referenced a review from May last year, which suggested that state ownership might not be essential.
By relinquishing its stake, the state could forfeit revenue and control over initiatives aimed at minimizing gambling-related harm. However, Struycken did not dismiss the possibility of the state stepping back to expand market availability.
“The evaluation revealed that the benefits of shareholding aren’t significant enough to dismiss the exploration of alternative future prospects,” he remarked.
Struycken acknowledged discussions on the anticipated rise in gambling tax with Holland Casino, pointing to a [report](https://igamingbusiness.com/legal-compliance/regulation/netherlands-gambling-tax-hike-approved/). The findings warned that the tax increase could result in substantial losses for online operators and might compel Holland Casino to shut down branches or cease its online presence.
Struycken added that, “The state secretary for taxation and the tax and customs administration plans to update the House about developments at Holland Casino before the summer of 2025.”
### Greater Distinction Between Online and Land-Based Gambling
In light of these issues, Van Nispen sought clarity on whether the new policy would clearly differentiate between online and land-based gambling.
Struycken indicated that the forthcoming policy would address this distinction, emphasizing the need to separate issues like harm and the risks associated with each form of gambling.
“I intend to tackle the necessity of differentiating various gambling types,” he mentioned. “Identifying the risk of addiction or other gambling-related harm associated with certain games of chance is crucial.”
He concluded, “I will detail my perspective and potential policy modifications in a letter scheduled for discussion in the House on March 27, giving priority to changes concerning the online gambling market.”