Key points:
- Curaçao’s parliament has passed the LOK, modernising the island’s gambling legislation
- The Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA) will replace the GCB as the regulatory body, overseeing stricter compliance measures
- The reforms aim to enhance Curaçao’s reputation, offering benefits for operators, players and the broader industry
Curaçao’s parliament has approved the National Ordinance on Games of Chance (LOK) by a vote of 13 to 6, marking a major milestone in the island’s efforts to reform its gambling sector.
The announcement was made by Aideen Shortt, PR and Marketing Consultant for the Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB), who described the development as “a great day for our industry.”
The LOK introduces sweeping changes aimed at modernising the island’s gambling framework, which has faced criticism for being outdated and overly permissive.
Good to know: The legislation mandates robust anti-money laundering procedures, responsible gaming practices and more stringent compliance requirements
Under the previous system, gambling licences were issued through a master licence system, with minimal regulatory oversight and enforcement. This led to reputational challenges and international pressure to implement reforms.
Key changes under the LOK include the establishment of the Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA), which will replace the GCB as the sole independent licensing and supervisory body.
The CGA will oversee both B2C operators and B2B suppliers, enforcing stricter compliance measures – including player protection, anti-money laundering (AML) protocols and responsible gambling standards.
Existing licensees will be transitioned to the new framework through a grandfathering process, aiming to ensure business continuity while aligning licensees with updated regulations.
New applicants will be required to establish a physical presence in Curaçao and undergo due diligence checks.
The reforms are hoped to enhance Curaçao’s reputation as a regulated gambling hub, providing benefits for players, operators and the jurisdiction itself.
