From January 1, broadcast advertisements to be banned by the Netherlands

The Dutch government has made clear the specifics of its ban on "untargeted" gambling advertisements. Broadcast advertisements will be prohibited as of the beginning of next year, and sponsorship will be prohibited as of the beginning of 2025.

Prior to a consultation on the legislation itself, the Ministry of Legal Protection unveiled more specific plans for what the "untargeted" advertising that had long been promised under pressure from legislators would actually entail.

From January 1, 2023, operators are not allowed to advertise on television, radio, or in open areas, whether indoors or outdoors.

The sponsorship of television programs and events will be outlawed as of January 1, 2024.

While sponsorship of sporting events and venues will be prohibited beginning on January 1, 2025.

According to the ministry, "the phasing will give the sports sector the opportunity to find alternative sponsors. The Kansspelautoriteit will soon monitor compliance with the new rules and will be able to intervene immediately in case of violation."

"This can be done, for example, in the form of a warning. If a provider does not respond, a fine may also follow."

Franc Weerwind, the minister for legal protection, acknowledged that advertisements could direct players toward legitimate services, but he insisted that a ban was still necessary to protect players.

He declared, "Today we have taken an important step towards further curbing gambling advertisements. Advertising is a means of directing people to the legal offer, but the importance of addiction prevention is more important."

"With this I want to protect vulnerable groups such as young people in particular."

According to the government, online and direct marketing will still be allowed, but " ut the rules will be further tightened so that vulnerable groups are not confronted with the advertisements."

By fLEXI tEAM