The Dutch gaming authority has called on Apple and Google to remove all gambling apps targeting the Netherlands from their app shops because they contravene Dutch gambling laws.

In total, 49 ‘real money’ apps break the rules which ban both online gambling and foreign firms from targeting Dutch punters, the government agency said.

‘Gambling is moving from computers to tablets,’ spokesman Martijn van de Koolwijk told the Volkskrant. ‘But as long as there is no regulation, it is illegal.’

Next week MPs are due to debate new laws which will regulate online gambling and allow companies to apply for licences. However, the debate has already been delayed three times and needs at least 18 months to go through the parliamentary process, Van de Koolwijk said.

Companies which break strict Dutch laws on gambling can be fined up to €810,000 or 10% of their annual profit.

To comply with Dutch rules, Apple, Microsoft, Google and other companies will have to stop Dutch consumers being able to access the apps in their app shops, the gambling body said.