Holland Casino, the largest casino operator in the Netherlands, is facing potential tax hikes that could significantly impact its bottom line. In response, the company is looking to rally trade unions and other stakeholders in the industry to push back against the proposed tax increases.
The Dutch government is considering raising the gambling tax from its current rate of 30.1% to as high as 50%. This move has raised concerns among industry players, who argue that such a steep increase would not only hurt the profitability of casinos like Holland Casino, but also result in job losses and the closure of venues.
Holland Casino, which operates 14 casinos across the country, is taking proactive steps to combat the proposed tax hikes. The company has been in talks with trade unions representing its employees, as well as other industry stakeholders, to mobilize support against the tax increases.
In a statement to CDC Gaming Reports, Holland Casino CEO Erwin van Lambaart stressed the negative impact that the proposed tax hikes would have on the company and its employees. “These tax increases would put significant strain on our business, potentially leading to job losses and closures of venues. We are working closely with trade unions and other industry stakeholders to advocate for a more reasonable tax rate that will allow us to continue to operate and thrive in the Dutch market,” van Lambaart stated.
Trade unions representing Holland Casino employees have expressed support for the company’s efforts to push back against the tax hikes. In a joint statement, the unions emphasized the importance of maintaining a competitive tax rate to ensure the sustainability of the gambling industry in the Netherlands.
The Dutch government has defended the proposed tax hikes, arguing that they are necessary to address growing concerns about problem gambling and to generate additional revenue for public services. However, industry players like Holland Casino are calling for a more measured approach that takes into account the potential consequences of such steep tax increases.
As the debate over Dutch gambling tax hikes continues to unfold, Holland Casino is rallying support from trade unions and other stakeholders in the industry to advocate for a more reasonable tax rate. The outcome of these efforts will have far-reaching implications for the future of the gambling industry in the Netherlands.