Curaçao Reports Thousands of Gambling License Applications

^{Pictured: Curaçao Finance Minister Javier Silvania}

Thousands of companies have submitted applications for gambling licenses in Curaçao*, according to Finance Minister Javier Silvania. As reported by the Curaçao Chronicle, the minister discussed the current state of the gaming sector during a parliamentary session.

So far, 220 licenses have been issued, with projections suggesting this number could rise to 600 by the end of the first quarter next year.

These licenses are currently being granted under the existing gambling framework, soon to be replaced by the National Ordinance on Gambling (LOK**). The updated legislation is expected to increase licensing fees, generating higher revenues for Curaçao from the gaming industry.

By 2025, the island anticipates collecting $22.3 million from licensing fees:

• $16.7 million from online operators
• $5.6 million from land-based casinos

“By issuing 600 licenses, the country will meet the projected revenue of 30 million guilders. Additionally, the Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA), which is currently still the GCB, will be able to cover its expenses, build necessary reserves, and operate independently,” said Silvania.

The government expects even more applications after LOK is implemented, citing enhanced security measures and improved oversight, which aim to strengthen Curaçao’s reputation as a leading online gambling jurisdiction.

* Curaçao is a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, located in the Caribbean.

** The LOK legislation aims to reform Curaçao’s gambling sector by introducing stricter licensing requirements and tighter regulatory controls.