Cura?ao and ACMA forge alliance to combat online gambling concerns
Regulatory reforms and collaborative measures set the stage for a more responsible online gambling landscape
Amid mounting concerns over online gambling operators allegedly flouting the law by targeting Australia, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has secured a commitment to collaboration from the government of Cura?ao. In response to a formal complaint lodged in May, ACMA officials engaged in dialogues with Cura?ao authorities on June 8. The discussions centered around the 90-plus online gambling operators based in the Caribbean nation, all reportedly focused on the Australian market. These developments have come to light through a Freedom of Information (FOI) request, initially submitted by the Sydney Morning Herald.
Cura?ao’s regulatory transformation
In a significant development, Cura?ao has expressed its commitment to working closely with Australian officials, as revealed by official documents. The island nation is embarking on a comprehensive overhaul of its online gambling licensing framework, set to launch on September 1. Under these reforms, the Gaming Control Board will assume the role of granting licenses, with future plans to establish the Cura?ao Gaming Authority as the primary regulatory body.
The proposed transformation aims to rectify the existing convoluted system of master and sub-licensees, which has allowed a multitude of websites to operate on the island without adequate oversight. As part of the new regime, operators seeking compliance with the revamped regulations will have a three-month window to apply for the updated licenses.
Notably, a letter shared by Cura?ao’s finance ministry in May highlighted Australia’s concerns, urging Cura?ao to factor in potential legal violations in other countries during the licensing assessment process. In a subsequent meeting held in June, representatives from Cura?ao’s gambling authority underscored their commitment to addressing such issues. According to notes disclosed through a Freedom of Information (FOI) request, the officials affirmed that transgressions by operators in other jurisdictions, including Australia, would be integral considerations when evaluating the suitability of applicants under the new regulatory framework. This cooperative stance signals a pivotal step towards ensuring more transparent and accountable online gambling practices on the island.
Curacao’s Minister of Finance, Javier Silvania, enlightening the audience with insights on upcoming regulatory changes during SiGMA.
Strengthened regulations
During a crucial meeting held in June, representatives of Cura?ao’s gambling authority solidified their dedication to a more rigorous regulatory approach. Notably, the officials affirmed their intention to consider infractions by operators in foreign jurisdictions, including instances in Australia, as significant factors in assessing the eligibility of licensees under the forthcoming regulatory framework. This disclosure emerged from notes unveiled through a Freedom of Information (FOI) request.
In a proactive move, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) underscored the imperative for licensees to establish effective dispute resolution mechanisms, particularly for customers affected by their operations, including the Australian populace. The ACMA’s stance reflects a commitment to safeguarding the interests of consumers within the industry stating “It will be mandatory for licensees to have in place dispute resolution mechanisms in place for affected customers, such as Australians.”
Furthermore, a missive from a high-ranking official at the Cura?ao Gaming Control Board, conveyed a resolute message of openness and collaboration. The official conveyed a resolute pledge to address breaches with utmost seriousness and to take all feasible measures to curtail them.
In an encouraging development, Australian officials reported that Cura?ao counterparts had committed to sharing information about alleged violators with the master license holders associated with these individuals or entities. This commitment is poised to bolster transparency and accountability within the regulatory landscape.
ACMA’s ongoing efforts
ACMA’s efforts have extended to urging Australian internet service providers to block an additional five unlicensed offshore gambling sites – a move that draws attention to the continued vigilance in addressing unscrupulous operators, especially those bearing connections to Cura?ao.
Recent instances include Reef Reels and Royal Reels, both purportedly based in Costa Rica but touting Cura?ao licenses. Meanwhile, Ricky Casino positions itself as an accessible gambling platform for Australians, boasting a Cura?ao license. Also of note, Slots Gallery, though blocked in the UK, claims a cryptocurrency casino identity alongside its Cura?ao license assertions.
ACMA’s dedication to combating illegal operators remains resolute, as evident from its record of having blocked a total of 803 websites since 2019. The enforcement initiatives have led to approximately 200 sites voluntarily withdrawing from their activities. These cumulative actions exemplify a concerted effort to safeguard consumers and uphold the integrity of online gambling in Australia.
Ready to Shape the Future of Gambling? Join Us at SiGMA Curacao!
Discover a world of possibilities at SiGMA Curacao, an extraordinary event hosted by Curacao’s Minister of Finance, Javier Silvania, in collaboration with SiGMA. Register now to secure your spot and delve into the intricacies of the new gambling legislation, delve into the thriving iGaming industry, and connect with key players on the island.
