Curaçao’s gambling sector is facing scrutiny as the local authorities have initiated an investigation into the Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA). This investigation has drawn attention following revelations from the Financial Supervision Board (Cft), indicating concerns regarding the island’s regulatory practices.
Curaçao Gaming Authority under Investigation
According to a letter from Cft chairman Lidewijde Ongering, the Public Prosecution Service is probing the CGA. Although the authority has not publicly commented, recent reports suggest that the Criminal Investigation Cooperation Team (RST) has been conducting investigations for some time.
Context of the Investigation
This inquiry coincides with controversies surrounding Javier Silvania, the island’s former finance minister who resigned abruptly in October. He is under investigation for allegations of corruption, and the RST has also looked into preferential treatment given to Alfonso Trona, the former head of the Tax Collector’s Office, along with issues of tax debt suspensions.
Impact on the Gambling Industry
Industry representatives are warning that the investigation can have serious repercussions for Curaçao’s reputation as a licensing hub. The Curaçao Online Gaming Association (COGA) expressed concerns that linking the CGA to this inquiry could exacerbate international skepticism about the island’s stability.
- The CGA is tasked with implementing the National Ordinance on Gambling (LOK).
- LOK aims to modernize and improve the regulation of Curaçao’s online gaming sector.
- The gaming sector is a crucial economic pillar for the island.
Concerns from the Gaming Sector
COGA emphasized that negative perceptions could undermine the progress made in recent years. The association noted that initiatives like the LOK and CGA’s restructuring have helped shift global perceptions positively. However, they fear that unfavorable media coverage could distort the reality of Curaçao’s gaming landscape.
As of now, officials in Curaçao have not provided clarity on the investigation’s specifics or progress. Until further updates are released, the uncertainty surrounding the CGA may hinder efforts to establish a credible and trustworthy gaming environment.
