Netherlands gambling regulator Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) has been forced to once again delay the opening of the regulated Dutch gambling market.

With the opening of the market already delayed as a result of COVID-19, the Remote Gaming Act is now expected to enter into force on 1 April, one month later than previously announced.

As a result, the opening of the regulated market is now slated for 1 October, six months after the start of the licensing process.

“Although the implementation is being tackled energetically by all involved, it is now clear that a careful implementation will require a little more time,” said the Dutch government in a statement.

The Remote Gaming Act will regulate online casino games in the Netherlands for the first time and aims to prevent gambling addiction, combat gambling-related fraud and crime, as well as protect players.