The country continues to face backlash over some of its lax gambling regulations
Curaçao is preparing to implement significant changes to its online gambling industry as Parliament reviews the proposed Gambling Ordinance (LOK) next week. The new legislation aims to replace the current double-licensing system with a more streamlined framework, creating an independent regulatory authority to oversee operations.
This move follows years of criticism that the existing system lacks sufficient oversight and has tarnished the island’s reputation as a trusted gambling jurisdiction.
The push for reform was partly influenced by conditions tied to financial aid from the Netherlands during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the proposed LOK, operators will face stricter requirements, addressing issues such as the recent high-profile bankruptcies of companies like BC.Game and 1XBet. These failures have raised concerns about the need for tighter regulations to protect both players and the industry’s integrity.
Legal challenges have further underscored the urgency for reform. Cases filed by the Foundation for the Protection of Online Gambling Victims have led to court-ordered closures of bankrupt operators, highlighting gaps in consumer protections. The proposed legislation seeks to address these shortcomings and prevent similar incidents in the future.
Supporters of the new regulations argue they will enhance Curaçao’s global standing in the gambling sector by promoting transparency and accountability. However, critics caution that potential loopholes could still allow bad actors to exploit the system, undermining the intended reforms.
If passed, the legislation could mark a turning point, positioning the island as a more reliable and sustainable hub for online gambling. However, whether it fully addresses the industry’s challenges remains to be seen.
Editor at the Big Blind, is a rising star in gambling journalism with a decade of experience, focusing on clear and accessible communication for a diverse audience.
