Article by Martin Oelbermann
London/Munich, January 29, 2008: Despite many similarities, the Belgian and Dutch gambling markets differ widely in several aspects. Whereas in the Dutch market a monopolistic/oligopolistic market structure still prevails, the Belgian market has for some time already been on the way – step by step – to increasing liberalisation. The consulting firm MECN’s new study “The Belgian and Dutch Gambling Markets” analyses both markets in detail.
Belgium – the home of the European Union on the way to liberalisation
Recently, more and more European gambling markets have become more liberalised. Although many experts are keeping a close eye on markets such as Italy and Spain, other markets such as Belgium are also showing promising developments. For a long time Belgium has a relatively liberalised betting and casino market and now is preparing to open its Internet gambling market also to private providers. If, as planned, the Belgian parliament will adopt new gambling legislation in 2008, foreign Internet gambling operators would also be allowed to offer their services in Belgium.
The Netherlands – more private operators than meet the eye
The Dutch state and some of its state-controlled operators have always been in the forefront of stopping any moves toward liberalisation and preventing foreign operators from entering the Dutch gambling market. But a closer look at the various gambling sectors reveals that the Dutch market is actually far more liberalised then many others. For example, several major lotteries are operated by the private company Novamedia, and a subsidiary of Scientific Games is in charge of horse race betting (also via Internet).
The report includes:
- Analysis of all sectors – The report analyses all sectors of the gambling markets: lottery, casino, betting, gambling/gaming machines, and Internet gambling.
- Market figures – Comprehensive market data such as market size and development of sales/turnover as well as gross revenues.
- Legal and tax information – Detailed explanation of the current legislation as well as the taxes imposed.
- Company profiles – MECN prepared detailed company profiles of the key market players that include products, financial figures, and strategic approaches.
- In total, the report has 63 pages and 36 graphs/exhibits.
The study can be obtained at: http://www.belgian-dutch-gambling.mecn.net