EUROMAT NEWS

MEMBER STATE NEWS

24/08/11 – The Dutch Government has announced its intention to fully open the Dutch online gambling market as early as 2012. Earlier this year, the authorities presented their plans to introduce national licenses for online betting, poker, casino and lottery. However, EUROMAT Member, the Dutch Gaming Machines Association (VAN) has strongly opposed the plans, arguing that opening all forms of online gambling at once would seriously damage the industry.  Annette Kok, the President of both VAN and EUROMAT, suggested following the “Belgian model” which only issues online licenses to those with an already established land-based business. Fred Teeven, the Dutch gambling state secretary is still in talks with stakeholders over the plans and must also convince other Dutch MPs.

19/08/11 – Further to the European Commission comments, Schleswig-Holstein has now delayed a vote on its gambling bill in order to allow for negotiations with other Länder over the First Amended German Interstate Treaty on Gambling. Schleswig-Holstein’s new gambling legislation would introduce a new licensing system with unlimited licenses and 20% Gross Profit Tax.