The Curaçao Gaming Authority has set a firm deadline for domestic suppliers of essential goods and services to obtain a CGA supplier licence by December 24. This date marks the conclusion of a two-year transition phase outlined by the National Ordinance on Games of Chance (LOK). Suppliers that fail to meet this deadline will be unable to legally operate with CGA-licensed operators.
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New Licensing Requirements
Domestic suppliers that provide critical services to licensed operators are required to file for a CGA supplier licence. Foreign suppliers, while exempt from needing a licence, must still register if their services are considered essential. The list of services requiring licensure is broad—covering areas like RNG game development, live dealer studios, and sportsbook software. Operators are also mandated to only engage with suppliers officially recognized by the CGA, as detailed in Article 5.16 of the LOK. For those local suppliers yet to secure a licence, applications must be submitted via the CGA Online Gaming Portal by September 1 to allow enough time for processing before the cutoff.
Impact on Curaçao’s Gaming Sector
This licensing deadline is expected to be a turning point for the B2B gaming industry in Curaçao. Suppliers have operated without formal CGA recognition during the transition, but this will no longer be the case. Operators will also carry the responsibility of ensuring their partners’ compliance with the new rules. Industry insiders will note that this aligns Curaçao more closely with regulatory practices in other jurisdictions known for stricter oversight.
Regulatory Developments and Compliance
While Curaçao tightens its requirements on suppliers, the CGA is also working on a new cryptocurrency framework for business-to-consumer online gambling licensees. This policy aims to regulate the crypto transaction chain over the next 12 months. The initiative is seen as an effort to modernize Curaçao’s gaming market amid increasing global adoption of digital currencies. And the CGA has further issued a warning regarding a gambling website, EZZ.CASINO, which it claims is falsely marketing itself as a CGA-licensed entity. The site allegedly uses the CGA’s logo and Digital Authorisation Seal without permission. The regulator’s swift action signals a zero-tolerance stance on such misrepresentations.
Next Steps for Compliance
Looking ahead, all supplier registrations are set to open in October 2026. As the deadline approaches, both domestic and international suppliers must ensure compliance to maintain their operational status in Curaçao. But missing this deadline could lead to major operational disruptions for those involved in the territory’s gaming sector.
Garry Sputnim is a seasoned journalist and storyteller with over a decade of experience in the trenches of global news. With a keen eye for uncovering stories that resonate, Alex has reported from over 30 countries, bringing light to untold narratives and the human faces behind the headlines. Specializing in investigative journalism, Garry has a knack for technology and social justice issues, weaving compelling narratives that bridge tech and humanity. Outside the newsroom, Garry is an avid rock climber and podcast host, exploring stories of resilience and innovation.
