Betsson and LeoVegas have declared they will no longer operate in the Netherlands as the nation opens its online gambling marketplace tomorrow (October 1st).

Both organizations stated they opted to withdraw from the Dutch market to secure a Dutch online gambling permit after the market opens.

The Dutch regulatory body, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), will impose disciplinary measures against operators providing gambling services without a license. Last week, the KSA levied a fine of €531,250 on Tipico for offering gambling services in the Netherlands, despite not specifically targeting customers in the country.

Betsson attributed its choice to the new Remote Gambling Act, which stipulates that operators not aiming for the Dutch market but offering services to Dutch players should discontinue operations in the nation.

“Adherence to laws, regulations, and ethical principles in the nations where we function is a fundamental value of Betsson,” remarked Pontus Lindwall, Betsson’s departing CEO and President.

LeoVegas is optimistic about the Dutch market and intends to operate under the new rules. They believe this will enable them to provide outstanding customer service to Dutch players.

LeoVegas recently revealed that the Dutch market constitutes a small percentage of their income.

Betsson has also declared that their decision to cease operations in the Netherlands will affect their earnings by approximately 25 million Swedish kronor.

The new gambling regulations, known as the KOA, became effective on April 1st after a year of postponements. The market will open six months later.

Yesterday, the KSA announced the ten operators that have been awarded the initial online gambling licenses in the Netherlands.