Rising costs are forcing a growing number of casinos and gaming halls in the Netherlands to shut down. The tax increases, combined with soaring energy prices and higher wages, are creating conditions that many operators cannot survive.

Dozens of closures in recent years

Industry data shows that dozens of smaller casinos and slot halls have already closed in the past two years, particularly in mid-sized cities and regional towns. “The market is under enormous strain,” one industry insider said. “For many entrepreneurs, the numbers just don’t add up anymore.”

Jobs and players affected
The closures are felt by both players and staff. Regular players are left with fewer options, sometimes with only a single large brand remaining in their region. For workers in Holland Casino and Jacks, the impact is more severe, with hundreds of jobs lost in recent years, particularly among croupiers, hospitality staff, and security personnel.

Risk of illegal alternatives

Critics warn that the decline of legal, licensed casinos could create space for unlicensed operators, particularly online. The Dutch Gambling Authority (KSA) has said it will step up enforcement against illegal platforms seeking to fill the gap left by local closures.