In the first half of 2025, tax reforms implemented in the Netherlands led to a €200 million decrease in gambling revenue.
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The Dutch iGaming sector is currently grappling with a significant challenge. The projected increase in the Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) tax for the industry, set to take effect from January 2026, will see the rate rise from the current 34.2% to a staggering 37.8%.
This proposed increase follows a previous hike in January 2025, when the tax rate was raised from 30.5% to 34.2%. However, this increase had a profound impact on the sector, causing a significant drop in GGR, estimated at around 25% in the first half of 2025, and a subsequent shortfall of approximately €200 million compared to projections.
The Dutch government's decision to further increase the tax rate has raised concerns about further market decline and revenue instability. The Dutch Gambling Authority (KSA) has warned that higher tax rates strain operators financially, reduce regulated market activity, and may drive players to unregulated offshore platforms. This, in turn, undermines both revenue goals and player protection objectives.
Despite these warnings, the Dutch government is pushing ahead with the tax hike. The question on many minds is whether this decision will prove to be a wise one, given the negative impacts of the previous tax increase. Only time will tell if the Dutch iGaming industry can weather this storm.
Lucas Dunn's work in the iGaming world continues to shine a light on these issues, providing insightful analysis and empowering players to make informed choices. His background in psychology and painting adds a unique perspective to his writing, making his articles both engaging and informative.
[1] Dutch iGaming Sector Faces Further Tax Hike Amidst Revenue Concerns. (2025). Retrieved from https://www.igamingnews.com/dutch-igaming-sector-faces-further-tax-hike-amidst-revenue-concerns
[2] Dutch Gaming Tax Increase: Impact on GGR and Revenue. (2025). Retrieved from https://www.igaminginsights.com/dutch-gaming-tax-increase-impact-on-ggr-and-revenue
[3] Dutch iGaming Market Contracts After Tax Hike. (2025). Retrieved from https://www.igamingrevenue.com/dutch-igaming-market-contracts-after-tax-hike
[4] KSA Warns of Further Market Decline with Proposed Tax Hike. (2025). Retrieved from https://www.ksa.nl/news/ksa-warns-of-further-market-decline-with-proposed-tax-hike
[5] Lucas Dunn: A Voice of Reason in the iGaming World. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.lucasdunn.com/about-lucas-dunn
