Curacao Signals Major Shift in Licensing Rules
The Curacao Gaming Authority (CGA) has issued a sharp warning to businesses using Curacao-registered companies to secure or operate under foreign gaming licenses. Beginning July 1, 2025, this approach will violate the new National Ordinance for Games of Chance (LOK), which demands that all entities offering games of chance “in or from Curacao” must hold a CGA-issued license.
Previously, many operators incorporated in Curacao relied on licenses from regulators outside the country while still using local business structures. However, the CGA now considers this tactic both unlawful and misleading to consumers, partners, and service providers.
Regulator Targets Misleading Business Practices
“Using a Curacao entity as a legal shell to operate under a foreign license gives the false impression of local supervision, which does not exist,” the CGA stated. Consequently, payment processors, software vendors, and other partners might mistakenly believe they’re supporting regulated operations, when in fact they’re enabling unlicensed and potentially criminal activities under Curacao law.
Moreover, the CGA has warned that individuals and companies facilitating such schemes—knowingly or otherwise—could face prosecution under the Criminal Code.
Enforcement Measures Coming Soon
In the coming days, the regulator plans to issue cease-and-desist notices to Curacao-registered firms operating under foreign licenses. This move is part of the CGA’s broader efforts to replace the outdated master license model with a modern, transparent regulatory system under the new LOK framework.
Ultimately, the CGA’s actions signal a determined effort to close loopholes, eliminate regulatory arbitrage, and restore Curacao’s reputation as a credible player in the global online gambling industry.
