Netherlands set iGaming fines

International iGaming operators will be legally fined in Netherlands for signing unauthorised deals.

Netherlands.- The Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) received the approval of the District Court in The Hague to fine international iGaming companies for making business in the country without a previous permission by Netherlands’ authorities. Last week, the Justice ruled in favour of KSA’s resolution of imposing penalties to Co-Gaming Limited, Mansion Online Casino Ltd. and ONISAC Ltd.

The three online gaming operators signed agreements with local companies although the KSA had not previously approved them, according to Calvin Ayre. Therefore, the Dutch regulator set a US$207k fine for Co-Gaming Limited, whilst Mansion Online Casino Ltd. and ONISAC Ltd. paid a combined total of US$172k.

The companies, licensed by Malta and Gibraltar governments, have already paid the fines but they decided to appeal KSA’s resolution. However, the District Court ruled to respect KSA’s settlement. Furthermore, the legal battle could continue if international operators keep presenting appeals against the Dutch regulator.

HW Kesler, vice-chairman of KSA, announced a new regulation that establishes a new step in combating remote gambling, as they believe that underage Dutch citizens should not be able to gamble on international licensed online gambling sites. Fines can be as high as US$875k for the most serious crimes, or 10 percent of sales to Dutch punters. The KSA said that even though they set multiple goals and efforts, it’s difficult to collect the fines imposed because there are times where the offenders don’t have enough money to pay their debts.