January – March: The Remote Gambling Act officially came into effect on March 1, 2021, marking the start of legal online gambling in the Netherlands. The Kansspelautoriteit granted the first batch of licenses to online operators, allowing them to offer a range of games, including online casino games and sports betting. The market opened with a mix of established international operators and local entities.
April – June: The initial months of regulated online gambling in the Netherlands were marked by a significant influx of licensed operators. The Kansspelautoriteit continued to process applications, ensuring that operators adhered to the newly established regulations. Consumer protection and responsible gambling remained key priorities.
July – September: As the Dutch market matured, there were ongoing discussions about advertising regulations and player safeguards. The Kansspelautoriteit closely monitored the industry to ensure compliance with licensing requirements and to address any emerging challenges. The market continued to evolve with a focus on sustainability and responsible business practices.
October – December: In the final months of 2021, the Dutch online gambling market continued to stabilize. The Kansspelautoriteit maintained its oversight, imposing penalties on non-compliant operators. The industry focused on adapting to regulatory requirements, and discussions turned toward the future development of the market, including potential changes to regulations and industry dynamics.