Saudi Arabia has approved the dates for implementing changes to its responsible gaming policy

The Netherlands Gambling Authority, known as Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), has announced the implementation dates for its new responsible gambling policy. The majority of the program will take effect on June 3, 2024, with the remaining components set to be introduced in October 2024.
Earlier this month, the KSA revealed that the policy change had been postponed from May 2024 to June 3, 2024. This delay was attributed to the need for additional time to respond to feedback from industry stakeholders regarding the proposed changes, as well as the high volume of responses received by the authority.
In December of last year, the KSA extended the deadline for comments to allow interested parties more time to provide their input. Industry representatives are encouraged to share their views on the proposed changes to the responsible gambling policy, which include stricter obligations for online providers to care for their customers.
In its latest update, the KSA confirmed that there will be two key dates when parts of the new policy will come into effect for providers. Most changes will be implemented and published in the Government Gazette on June 3, 2024.
The KSA also stated that the remaining aspects of the revised policy will take effect on October 1, 2024. These changes will affect paragraphs four, five, six, and seven of Article 3.1.12, as well as paragraph two of Article 3.1.13 of the Responsible Gambling Policy.
The authority added that the articles may undergo minor revisions in response to the comments received, providing providers with additional time to make any necessary adjustments.
Earlier this year, the KSA introduced a new oversight program as part of its "Safe Gambling Business" mission, alongside public objectives aimed at enhancing customer protection in casinos. As part of its 2020-2024 strategy, four areas have been identified as potentially at higher risk: duty of care/prevention of addiction, combating illegal online offerings, supporting partners, and compliance with data provision requirements.
Meanwhile, Bulgaria is considering amendments to its Gambling Act.