Basic law: Wet Hazardspelen (Gambling Act), Suriname

Wet Hazardspelen is the basic law of Suriname on gambling, adopted back in 1962 and became the skeleton of all subsequent regulation (casinos, slot machines, general prohibitions and exceptions). Over the decades, it has been repeatedly supplemented, and in 2023 an important updated edition was published with amendments to the Criminal and Procedural Codes and the Casino Tax Law.

Brief history and structure of the law

1962: Wet Hazardspelen is adopted - permits and criminal liability are established for playing games without a license/permit.

Further years: point changes and by-laws; separate provisions regulated access to casinos (including a special order for residents/non-residents).

2023: new edition published (Staatsblad 2023 no. 135) - systemic amendments to Wet Hazardspelen and related laws (Criminal Code, Criminal Procedure Code, casino tax 2002).

Subject of regulation: what exactly covers Wet Hazardspelen

1. Permissive mode. Exploitation of "hazardspelen" (gambling) is allowed only on the basis of a permit/license; for violation, criminal liability is provided (fines/imprisonment).

2. Access to gambling establishments. Historically, access to casino premises was regulated by access control: a permit (available card) was required from the local police; exceptions are provided for non-residents and residents accompanied by them.

3. Supervision and control. The state has the right to establish visiting rules, working hours, requirements for personnel and reporting, as well as apply sanctions for violations. The current list of relevant laws and regulations is published on the Gaming Control Board Suriname website.

2023 updates: What's important to know

• confirms the state priority of controlled exploitation of gambling;
• synchronizes Wet Hazardspelen regulations with the Criminal and Procedural Codes (procedures, sanctions) and with the Casino Tax Act 2002;
• strengthens law enforcement (grounds for inspections, procedure for seizure, fixation of offenses).

Taxation: "Wet heffing Hazardspelen"

The tax circuit is supplemented by a special law on collecting payments from gambling organizers. The document describes the rates and payment procedure for publicly available premises with slot machines and/or tables. For some cases, offset/return mechanisms are provided when the capacities are not used.

Role of the regulator and related acts

Gaming Control Board Suriname publishes excerpts from key norms and links to profile acts (including Wet Hazardspelen and Wet Toezicht en Controle Kansspelen). This is an "entry point" for operators and investors.

Compliance and AML/CFT: Requirements for customer identification and reporting of unusual transactions are enshrined in general financial laws (MOT/WID) applicable to risk sectors - it is important for operators to take these requirements into account when setting up payments.

Online segment: status quo

The online gaming segment in Suriname is still developing to a limited extent: the overall Wet Hazardspelen framework has historically focused on ground operation; reviews indicate that the online market does not have a full-fledged separate licensing regime, with the exception of limited local permits. Before entering the market or launching online products, the operator needs to double-check the current explanations of the regulator.

Practical squeeze for business

Permits/licenses: activities - only on the basis of valid permits, taking into account the version of 2023.

Access and mode of operation: observe the requirements for the admission of visitors (historical restrictions for residents and pass regime), local rules and police/supervision signals.

Taxes: estimate the tax burden on Wet heffing Hazardspelen and related acts (machines/tables, settlement procedure).

Supervision/AML: configure KYC/AML procedures, data storage and reporting in accordance with applicable financial laws and the requirements of the Gaming Control Board.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does this law allow casinos?

Yes, within the framework of the permit regime: exploitation is prohibited and punishable without permission.

Is it possible to freely let local residents into the casino?

Historical provisions introduced access control and special admission rules (non-residents; residents - accompanied by non-residents). Check the current instructions with the regulator/police.

What has changed in 2023?

Systemically updated Wet Hazardspelen norms and related codes/tax law; enforcement has been strengthened and procedures have been agreed.

How to count taxes?

Focus on Wet heffing Hazardspelen: it sets the approach to taxation of slot machines/tables in public institutions and the procedure for offsets.

What about online?

There is no full-fledged separate framework for online games yet; the position is assessed as limited adjustable. Check the current regulator instructions before starting.

Wet Hazardspelen is the foundation of Suriname's gambling law. Its permissive nature and historical rules for access to casinos have determined the unique architecture of the market, and the 2023 edition has tightened criminal procedure and tax standards to modern practices. Further stability of the sector depends on clear coordination with the Gaming Control Board, correct tax and AML settings, as well as on accurate adjustment of the online mode taking into account international experience.