KSA introduces new era of cooperation, warns of full ad ban
The Dutch Gaming Authority (KSA) has unveiled its “Regulator 2.0” initiative, aiming to enhance collaboration with operators amid growing demands for increased engagement from banking and technology sectors to combat illegal gambling.
As the regulatory landscape evolves, the KSA is advocating for a cooperative approach, warning that non-compliance could lead to severe consequences, including a comprehensive ban on gambling advertisements.
During the recent Gaming in Holland Conference 2025, Renske Fikkers, head of the KSA’s regulatory department, emphasized the authority’s intention to shed its image as an unreachable, punitive body focused solely on enforcement.
Fikkers introduced the “Regulator 2.0” framework, designed to foster a more open and adaptable regulatory environment that addresses the industry’s most pressing challenges. She stated, “We recognize that regulatory measures often need to be flexible. By maintaining open communication about unforeseen challenges, we can significantly enhance our regulatory landscape.”
“In engaging with operators directly, we can promptly address any areas of concern or dissatisfaction,” Fikkers added, reinforcing the KSA’s commitment to dialogue.
KSA Signals Potential Extensive Advertising Ban
Despite the collaborative tone, Fikkers issued a stringent warning to operators regarding compliance with advertising regulations, suggesting that failure to adhere could trigger a total advertising ban. “I observe too frequently that advertising guidelines are not followed correctly, leading to public backlash and making a complete advertising ban an increasingly viable option,” she cautioned.
In May, the KSA issued a notice against gambling sponsorships in sports, with an impending prohibition set to commence in July. Reflecting on the upcoming licensing round in 2026, Fikkers noted that the KSA would consider historical compliance—both positive and negative—during evaluations.
“Our team is already consulting with industry representatives regarding potential challenges that may arise during the licensing process. It’s crucial that we navigate this process collaboratively to ensure a seamless experience,” she stated.
Advocating for Cooperation Among Tech Firms and Banks
At the same conference, the Dutch trade association VNLOK amplified calls for increased collaboration from technology companies and financial institutions to address the threats posed by illegal gambling. VNLOK leader Björn Fuchs articulated, “Curtailing access to black market operations requires more than legislation; it necessitates proactive involvement from banks, Google, and Facebook to cease any facilitation of illegal gambling activities.”
He urged these technologically advanced organizations to leverage their capabilities effectively to obstruct illegal gambling websites that target Dutch consumers. This sentiment was echoed by Arjan Blok, CEO of the state-operated Dutch Lottery, who stressed the need for unity among stakeholders—including regulators, service providers, financial entities, and technological platforms—to collectively combat illegal gambling.
Empowering Regulators and Legal Action Against Black Market Operators
Blok further advocated for extending the KSA’s authority to tackle illicit gambling operators more effectively. Proposed enhancements include granting the KSA the power to blacklist illegal gambling websites, block online advertisements, and prohibit payment services that facilitate these illegal activities.
He also highlighted the necessity for the KSA to take action against hosting services that support illegal gambling. As a case in point, Blok referenced the civil lawsuit against the Costa Rica-based operator Lalabet, aiming to permanently exclude them from the market. “Our goal is to render this site inactive permanently, ensuring it cannot reemerge under a different name or platform,” he stated.
Previously regulated in the Netherlands by Casbit, Lalabet faced warnings and penalties from the KSA earlier this year. Blok noted that Nederlandse Loterij is actively pursuing legal action against another illegal operator, reflecting a broader commitment to eradicating unauthorized gambling from the market.
Through these initiatives, the KSA not only seeks to enhance regulatory practices but also aims to create a more equitable and safe gambling environment for consumers in the Netherlands.
