The Kansspelcommissie, the Belgian Gaming Commission, has issued a statement warning companies that response times may be a little longer than usual throughout the summer holidays.
The Gaming Commission expects that both July and August will be particularly affected by delays, with staff taking holidays during this period.
As such, companies are asked to “take this into account” and “provide the necessary documents in a timely manner.”
Smaller, more frequent meetings will be held by the Gaming Commission to pass cases that are simple and contain all the paperwork needed.
The Gaming Commission was officially established on 7 May, 1999, to provide advice on all matters of the law related to gambling and player protection.
In order to operate as an online gambling platform in Belgium, a company must first obtain its licence through the Gaming Commission before it can launch operations.
The Commission also has the power to impose sanctions, such as administrative fines, warnings or even revoke the licences of companies that breach the rules of their contracts.
Earlier this month, the Commission was moved under the authority of the Federal Public Service (FPS) Economy and under the supervision of the Minister of Economy.
The Kansspelcommissie was previously under the Minister of Justice and the FPS Justice.
This move reflects a change of opinion in that gambling is no longer a matter of illegality and crime, but a viable economic driver.
Of course, the move was supported by a government coalition agreement that pledges to combat illegal gambling while strengthening player protection measures.
The Gaming Commission noted at the end: “Thank you for your understanding!”