Online gambling: no local regulation, access to offshore platforms (outdated thesis) - what is real in 2025

Important: the request is out of date

The wording "no local regulation, access to offshore platforms" was correct until the 2023 reform. Since September 13, 2023, the updated Wet Hazardspelen (Gambling Law) has been in effect, which directly introduces local online licenses (ceiling - no more than 3), and supervision is assigned to the Gaming Control Board Suriname (GCBS). This means: it is forbidden to advertise and offer online casinos to players in Suriname without a local license, even if the site is hosted abroad.

Current Status Summary (2025)

What has changed after 2023

The President of Suriname (on the recommendation of GCBS) can issue up to three online licenses: this rule is directly spelled out in the text of the law.

GCBS publicly confirms that the oversight is based on Wet Toezicht en Controle op Kansspelen (2009, rev. 2023) and Wet Hazardspelen; the regulator's website lists the applicable acts.

Separately updated Loterijwet (2023) and the subsequent by-law Loterijbesluit (2024), which modernized control over lotteries and permit procedures.

What it means for the market

A local license became a prerequisite for the legal offer of online casinos in Suriname; offshore sites cannot target players from the country without permission.

GCBS acts as a compliance and oversight center; its powers are expanded by the 2023 changes.

Why they used to talk about "access to offshore"

Prior to the adoption of the package of laws in September 2023, Suriname did not have a full-fledged local online framework: players used international sites, and the discussion on ways to regulate was in parliament and the press. In August-September 2023, quotas and age limits were discussed; subsequently, the norms were enshrined in the final text.

What is allowed and what is prohibited today

• Operation of online casinos with a national license (no more than 3 at a time), under the supervision of GCBS.
• Lottery activities under the new Loterijwet rules (2023) and subsequent regulations.

• Offer online casinos to players in Suriname without a Surinamese license, even with foreign hosting (extraterritorial ban under Wet Hazardspelen).

Practice and realities of access

Some commercial reviews and guidebooks (especially unofficial ones) still call the online market "unregulated" - like the inertia of old practice. But from the point of view of law for 2025, this is incorrect: the legal framework is valid, and GCBS indicates the sources of regulation on its website. Use only official acts and publications of government agencies as primary sources.

Impact on operators and players

To operators

We need a local license and compliance with GCBS requirements for game integrity, internal control, reporting, advertising and AML/CFT. When planning to enter the market, take into account the quota of 3 licenses and the priority of compliance.

To players

Legitimate online products are those that operate under a Surinamese license. Foreign sites without it are illegal to offer services in the country, even if they are technically available.

Regulatory supports (primary sources)

Wet Hazardspelen, Staatsblad 2023 No. 135 - contains a norm on a maximum of 3 online licenses and licensing powers. (PDF on Parliament website).

Wet Toezicht en Controle op Kansspelen (S.B. 2009 No. 78, rev. S.B. 2023 No. 134) - GCBS status and powers. (PDF/slider page).

Loterijwet (S.B. 2023 No. 136) and Loterijbesluit 2024 are modern lottery framework and permit procedures.

The thesis "there is no local regulation, there is access to offshore companies" for online gambling in Suriname is outdated. A national model has been in place since September 2023, with a limited number of online licences and GCBS oversight. For the site/section, I can prepare a second version of the material with the "correct" title (for example, "Online Gambling in Suriname: New Licensed Model (after 2023)") and short blocks: "Legal Status," "Licensing," "Advertising and Responsibility," "Sources of Law."