A survey into the habits of Dutch consumers highlights an apparent rise in gambling problems. The study noted a steep rise from 2022 to 2023. It also tracks substance abuse.
LADIS, a market analyst conducted the survey. It found that gambling was the fifth most problematic issue and it affects 3.8 per cent of citizens. Compared to alcohol that has 44.9 per cent, cannabis having 15.3 percent, cocaine having 12.3 per cent, and opiate abuse having 11.8 per cent, that is relatively low. Nonetheless, gambling problem showed the fastest-year-on-year growth in the previous year. It rose by 24.2 per cent. Online gaming shows the biggest increase in customer activity during the period.
As suggested by the data from gambling problem treatment centers, 46 per cent of people who requested support did so for the first time. Around 88 per cent were men, and 75 per cent were ages between 25 and 55. Some 44 per cent of those with harmful gambling also had a substance abuse disorder. Alcohol is the most common having 44 per cent.
Early this week, KSA or Kansspelautoriteit, the Dutch gambling regulator, reported on the results of its probe into duty of care levels at gaming arcades in the Netherlands. The results reported that most of the 20 arcades inspected in December and January showed satisfactory compliance with gambling prevention regulations under the KOA Act or Remote Gambling Act.
Yet, the regulator concluded that there was room for improvement even though regular players appeared to understand their behavior. They have found that some venues implemented play time monitoring to different extents. However, none had set a maximum playing time. KSA said it was specifically important for arcades that are open 24 hours a day. They have also found players using various slot machines at the same time. It noted that although this is not illegal, it puts players at risk of excessive gambling.
