WILLEMSTAD – The introduction of the National Ordinance for Games of Chance (LOK) is expected to lead to an outflow of online gambling operators, but this development has been deliberately anticipated, according to the Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA).
Supervisory director Cedric Pietersz said that it was clear from the outset that stricter requirements, higher licensing fees, and intensified supervision would mean that not all operators would remain active under the new regulatory framework. He made the comments ahead of the implementation of the new legislation for the online gambling sector.
According to the CGA, the reform is aimed at strengthening Curaçao’s reputation as a gambling jurisdiction and aligning it more closely with international standards. The LOK introduces tighter compliance obligations, enhanced oversight of license holders, and a more robust supervisory role for the Gaming Authority.
Pietersz emphasized that the choice was consciously made to prioritize quality over quantity. Curaçao’s objective, he said, is to position itself as a reliable and transparent jurisdiction for online gambling, rather than one focused solely on volume.
While acknowledging that some companies are opting to leave, the CGA maintains that the sector will become more resilient and sustainable as a result. The implementation of the LOK is viewed as a necessary step to strengthen supervision, address international criticism, and secure the long-term credibility of Curaçao’s online gambling industry.
