According to Dutch media, the two largest industry associations in the Dutch gambling industry, VNLOK and NOGA, have decided to merge in the context of a rapidly changing regulatory environment, uniting their member organizations under the VNLOK brand.

Taking a closer look at the organisations, NOGA first came into existence in 2019 through the vision of Dutch lawyer Peter-Paul de Goeij, who wanted a body that represents the interests of both domestic and international operators on Dutch soil.

VNLOK on the other hand was established in 2021 post-online market regulation, with the goal of strengthening cooperation between Dutch iGaming providers and building up good player safety practices while the market developed.

Commenting on the merger, Sanna van Doorn, NOGA’s Vice-Chairman, said: “The board of NOGA is pleased that after a longer period of cooperation, we are now entering a next phase together with VNLOK as an industry association. 

“We are convinced that we will achieve a broad and solid industry association, which will continue to make a relevant contribution to a structurally healthy and safe online gambling market in the Netherlands.”

The Dutch market is currently undergoing major reforms led by State Secretary for Legal Protections Teun Struycken. Some of the changes mandated by Struycken will see stricter safety gambling measures introduced, including playing bans of people aged under 24.

Additionally, there is currently a caretaker Dutch government in place after the previous coalition cabinet fell through, with new elections expected to take place later in October.

VNLOK and NOGA will now move to address these changes through their merger. Björn Fuchs, VNLOK Chair, commented: “On behalf of the board of VNLOK, I would like to express our gratitude for the dialogue and efforts of the board of NOGA, which make this joint next step possible.

“A necessary and logical step, which gives the online gambling industry one clear, united voice towards all relevant stakeholders. We look forward to welcoming the NOGA members to VNLOK soon.”

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