Curaçao Cracks Down on Foreign-Licensed Operators: CGA Tightens Regulatory Oversight
On July 1, the Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA) issued a warning stating that gambling companies registered in Curaçao but operating without a CGA license are in violation of the National Ordinance on Games of Chance (LOK).
New CGA Compliance Rules
The Curaçao regulator outlined the following:
- Any company registered in Curaçao but operating under a foreign license is in breach of the LOK.
- This conduct may also constitute a violation of the Curaçao Penal Code.
- Operators lacking a local CGA license are misleading players and B2B partners.
As a result, the CGA has begun issuing formal notices demanding the immediate suspension of such operations within Curaçao.
What Constitutes a Violation
Operators will be deemed non-compliant if they:
| Activity | Status According to CGA |
|---|---|
| Are registered in Curaçao but operate under a foreign license | Illegal |
| Use a foreign license to engage with B2B partners | Misleading |
| Operate without obtaining a CGA license | LOK Violation |
Implications for Operators
The CGA emphasizes that all gambling entities must be aware of the potential consequences:
- Immediate suspension of activities in Curaçao upon notice
- Legal repercussions under local law
- Loss of trust from players and business partners
This underscores the requirement that all Curaçao-based operations must hold a valid license issued exclusively by the CGA.
Changes in Licensing Policy
Several well-known operators have already responded to the regulatory shift:
- Pinnacle has relinquished its Curaçao license in favor of an Anjouan license.
- BC.GAME has also migrated its operations to the Anjouan jurisdiction.
These moves indicate a broader market adaptation to the CGA’s evolving regulatory approach.
Why a CGA License is Now Essential
Curaçao was once considered an accessible jurisdiction for online gambling operators. However, the new stance means:
- Operating without a CGA license is now prohibited.
- Foreign licenses carry no legal weight in Curaçao.
- Company registration alone is no longer sufficient.
Conclusion
Curaçao’s licensing framework is undergoing significant reform. Being registered on the island no longer grants operational freedom without a CGA-issued license. Operators must now secure local authorization to remain legally compliant. This applies to both B2C and B2B operations.
The CGA urges all stakeholders to review their strategies and ensure full compliance with the updated legal requirements.