Curaçao: The Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA) has proposed a framework governing the usage of cryptocurrencies for gambling. The new legislation, which will be gradually implemented over the next 12 months, would significantly increase the compliance requirements for holders of Curaçao business-to-consumer online gambling licenses.
New regulations will apply to every stage of the bitcoin transaction chain, from player bets and deposits to withdrawals and treasury administration. As a result, offshore businesses that have historically neglected robust analytics and treasury infrastructure will now need to create systems that meet the new CGA criteria.
The 11-page document, which CGA marketing and PR advisor Aideen Shortt shared on LinkedIn, outlines actions that will be taken progressively over several months until mid-2027. However, the regulator notes that it may choose to accelerate timelines if threats materialize.
The latest rules aim to align Curaçao's oversight of cryptocurrency transactions in gambling with international anti-money laundering and counterterrorism financing legislation. Operators must abide by role limitations, using cryptocurrencies just for gaming and not acting as custodians, exchanges, or suppliers of virtual asset services.
Additional requirements include a preference for fiat-backed stablecoins, the division of player, operational, and treasury wallets, and the use of blockchain analytics for transaction monitoring and wallet screening. Meme tokens, privacy coins, and wrapped assets with unclear origins will be examined or disregarded. Money connected to approved addresses, tumblers, or mixers is strictly forbidden.
Within six months, licensees must complete risk assessments and staff training; within three months, they must submit a compliant crypto policy to the CGA portal; and by June 2027, they must achieve full compliance. That final stage of implementation requires wallet segregation, transaction reconciliation, analytics tool deployment, and audit-ready record keeping.
The Financial Action Task Force's worldwide standards, such as the Travel Rule and improved transparency measures, are meant to be closely mirrored in the recommendations.