The Dutch Online Gambling Association (DOGA) has expressed deep concern over a proposed increase in gambling tax in the Netherlands, which could have significant repercussions for the online gambling industry in the country.
The proposal, put forward by the Dutch government as part of its budget for the upcoming year, would see the tax on online gambling operators increased from its current rate of 29% to a whopping 30.1%. This increase comes at a time when the Dutch online gambling market is preparing to launch its regulated market on October 1st.
In a statement released by DOGA, the association warned that the proposed tax increase could have a detrimental impact on the online gambling industry in the Netherlands. They argue that the increased tax rate would make it more difficult for operators to compete in the market, as they would be forced to pass on the cost to consumers in the form of higher betting odds and lower payout rates.
Furthermore, DOGA highlighted the fact that many online gambling operators have already made significant investments in preparing for the regulated market, and an increase in tax could jeopardize these investments and potentially lead to job losses within the industry.
DOGA has called on the Dutch government to reconsider the proposed tax increase and work with industry stakeholders to find a more suitable solution. They argue that a lower tax rate would not only benefit online gambling operators, but also the Dutch government itself, as it would encourage more companies to operate in the regulated market and increase tax revenues in the long run.
The issue of tax rates in the Dutch online gambling market has been a contentious issue for some time, with operators calling for a more competitive tax regime to ensure the sustainability of the industry. With the proposed increase in tax now on the table, it remains to be seen how the Dutch government will respond to the concerns raised by DOGA and other industry stakeholders.
The Dutch online gambling market is set to launch on October 1st, with operators eagerly awaiting the opportunity to tap into the lucrative Dutch market. However, the specter of a higher tax rate looms large over the industry, raising questions about the future viability of the market and the potential impact on consumers and operators alike.
