The UK Gambling Commission and the Netherlands Gambling Authority (Kansspelautoriteit, KSA) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Both governing bodies have agreed to elevate their collaborative efforts against cross-border illegal gambling operators. This is the second agreement since the partnership was formed in 2021. The regulators claim that collaboration is crucial to tackling challenges in this dynamic global gambling ecosystem.
Key Insights into the UKGC and KSA Partnership Agreement
- The UKGC CEO and Commissioner Andrew Rhodes and KSA Chairman Michel Groothuizen signed the MoU on Tuesday, November 4, following a discussion between representatives of both organisations in October.
- The UKGC notes that this is the first-ever follow-up partnership with another gambling regulator, signalling a deep-rooted commitment to strengthening cross-border regulatory oversight.
- The UKGC confirmed that it had fruitful discussions with several overseas gambling regulators at the event on tackling the unregulated gambling market and increasing cross-border collaboration.
UKGC Signs First-ever Follow-up MoU with Another Gambling Regulator
The UK Gambling Commission and the KSA signed a partnership agreement on Tuesday, November 4, pledging to strengthen their collaborative efforts in fighting illegal gambling across both jurisdictions. This is the second agreement signed between the regulatory bodies since the partnership was established in May 2021.
The agreement was signed between UKGC CEO and Commissioner Andrew Rhodes and KSA Chairman Michel Groothuizen. Representatives from both organisations had met during the International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) conference in Canada on Friday, October 31, where the partnership was discussed.
The UKGC’s official press release read:
We’re pleased to have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), our regulatory counterparts in the Netherlands. While at the International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) in Canada, we had fruitful discussions with many international regulators, but this agreement with colleagues from the Netherlands is the first time we’ve signed a follow-up MoU with any country.
The two gambling regulators have agreed to deepen their collaborative efforts to fight unlicensed gambling operations across both jurisdictions.
The UKGC noted:
This proposal will see us work much closer on tackling the illegal gambling market, on sharing vital regulatory information, and shadowing one another as we progress towards protecting our consumers in an ever-expanding global industry.
The Gambling Commission expressed its gratitude to the KSA chairman and his team for their continued support toward a mutual goal.
The UKGC said:
With thanks to Michel Groothuizen, Chair of the KSA, and his colleagues for their continued support in Europe and mutually beneficial ongoing partnership.
European Gambling Regulators Expand Cross-Border Collaboration
The European online gambling market is on a growth curve, with online casinos in Ireland, the UK, and the Netherlands gaining significant popularity in recent years. A second agreement between Europe’s two most recognisable gambling watchdogs signals evolving market dynamics, in which remote gambling regulations pose a real challenge.
Earlier in 2025, the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) signed similar MOUs with the Gibraltar Regulatory Authority (GRA), UK Gambling Commission, and Belgian Gaming Commission. This reiterates the UKGC’s commitment to building a wider network of regulatory allies to elevate its cross-border enforcement strategy.
The Gambling Commission published its first report on black market gambling in September, aiming to improve player safety and reduce illicit gambling activities. The report provides detailed insights into player profiles, behavioural patterns and motivations for engaging with unregulated gambling platforms.
The KSA is equally proactive in restricting illicit gambling operations, ensuring player safety. The regulator announced a new rule requiring gambling operators to submit an exit strategy while applying for a new licence, along with an AML compliance report. The legislation will take effect from January 1, 2026.
In July, the KSA prohibited gambling sponsorships in sports in a bid to minimise gambling exposure among the younger generation. Licensees can no longer sponsor teams, leagues, competitions or athletes, or promote their brands or services using banners, logos, t-shirts or online campaigns.
Regulators explain that strict legislation and international cooperation are crucial for ensuring compliance amid fragmented rules across Europe. This once again highlights the need for harmonisation in EU gambling regulations, as proposed by the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA).