Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for a Curaçao Gaming License in 2025

Step by Step Guide How to Apply Curacao Gaming License

The Curaçao Gaming License has long been one of the most recognized online gambling certifications in the world. Since the jurisdiction first started regulating iGaming in 1996, Curaçao has built a reputation for being a reliable, accessible, and business-friendly hub for casino and sportsbook operators. Today, thousands of online casinos, poker rooms, sports betting platforms, and even crypto-based gaming sites operate legally under Curaçao’s framework, making it one of the most popular options for both new entrepreneurs and established brands.

What makes Curaçao particularly attractive is its unique balance between accessibility and credibility. On the one hand, it is far more cost-effective than competing jurisdictions such as Malta, Gibraltar, or the Isle of Man, which often require significantly higher setup fees, longer approval times, and stricter ongoing compliance. On the other hand, Curaçao’s license still provides operators with an internationally respected seal of legitimacy, allowing them to open merchant accounts, partner with payment processors, and market their brand in multiple regions. For startups and mid-sized businesses, this balance of affordability and recognition is what makes Curaçao the first choice when entering the global iGaming market.

As of 2025, Curaçao has modernized its licensing framework to align more closely with global standards. This includes enhanced due diligence checks, stronger anti-money laundering (AML) rules, and greater emphasis on responsible gaming measures. While these changes may add new steps to the application process, they ultimately strengthen the credibility of the license in the eyes of regulators, banking institutions, and players worldwide. In other words, a Curaçao license in 2025 doesn’t just get you into the market quickly — it also helps you build long-term trust with partners and customers.

This guide will provide a step-by-step breakdown of how to apply for a Curaçao gaming license in 2025, including company formation, required documentation, compliance measures, costs, and timelines. Whether you are a first-time operator looking to launch an online casino or an established group exploring sportsbook expansion, following these steps will help you avoid common pitfalls and accelerate your approval.

Why Choose a Curaçao Gaming License in 2025?

Why Choose a Curaçao Gaming License in 2025?

Since 1996, Curaçao has established itself as a trusted hub for online gaming. Thousands of operators — from new startups to international casino brands — continue to rely on its regulatory framework. In 2025, Curaçao remains one of the fastest and most practical options for launching an online casino or sportsbook.

Here’s why entrepreneurs choose Curaçao over other jurisdictions:

1. Affordable setup

  • Curaçao offers one of the lowest entry costs in the iGaming industry.

  • Competing jurisdictions like Malta, Gibraltar, and the Isle of Man can cost 3–5x more.

  • Setup fees and annual renewals are reasonable, making Curaçao ideal for:

    • Startups testing new casino platforms.

    • Small to medium-sized operators expanding into new markets.

    • Companies that want to reinvest capital into marketing and player acquisition.

2. Fast approval time

  • Average processing time: 4–6 weeks if documents are complete.

  • In contrast, Malta or Isle of Man approvals can take 6–12 months.

  • Quick licensing means you can launch faster and capture market share before competitors.

3. Global recognition

  • Curaçao licenses are accepted in many international markets, including:

    • Asia (fast-growing online gambling markets).

    • Latin America (expanding regulation and demand).

    • Eastern Europe and Africa (emerging casino audiences).

  • Enables operators to partner with affiliates, payment providers, and software platforms without credibility issues.

4. Crypto-friendly environment

  • Supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT, and other cryptocurrencies.

  • Encourages blockchain-based gaming and tokenized casinos.

  • Attracts modern players who prefer anonymity, fast transactions, and low fees.

  • Few other jurisdictions are as flexible with crypto integration.

5. Streamlined compliance

  • Updated in 2025 to meet stricter global standards:

    • AML (Anti-Money Laundering) checks.

    • KYC (Know Your Customer) procedures.

    • Responsible gaming policies.

  • Less bureaucratic compared to EU regulators.

  • Provides a balance between regulatory oversight and business flexibility.

Step 1: Understand Curaçao’s Licensing Framework

Before you begin your application, it’s critical to understand how Curaçao’s licensing structure works. Unlike some jurisdictions that issue only one type of gambling license, Curaçao operates under a two-tier system that has been in place since 1996.

Here’s what you need to know:

Master Licenses

  • Issued directly by the Government of Curaçao.

     

  • First granted in 1996 to only a handful of companies.

     

  • Master license holders have the authority to issue sub-licenses to other operators.

     

  • No new Master Licenses have been issued since 1996.

     

  • Only four Master Licenses exist, making them extremely valuable.

     

For new applicants in 2025, obtaining a Master License is not possible. You will instead apply for a Sub-License through one of the existing Master License holders.

Sub-Licenses

  • Issued under a Master License.

     

  • This is the license type available to new operators in 2025.

     

  • Grants full rights to operate:

     

    • Online casinos.

       

    • Sportsbooks.

       

    • Poker platforms.

       

    • Lotteries and other iGaming products.

       

  • Legally recognized internationally, just like Master Licenses.

     

  • Valid as long as the Master License remains in effect (renewed annually).

     

Important note: A Curaçao Sub-License in 2025 carries the same international recognition as a Master License, meaning your players, affiliates, and payment providers will treat it as equally legitimate.

Key Differences Between Master and Sub-Licenses

  • Issuance: Master = Government; Sub-License = Master holder.

     

  • Availability: Master Licenses = fixed number; Sub-Licenses = unlimited.

     

  • Rights: Both allow operation of iGaming businesses, but only Masters can issue Subs.

     

Application path: New applicants → must apply for Sub-License.

Why This Matters for Your Application

  • Saves time: you don’t deal with the government directly, only with a licensed Master holder.

  • Streamlined process: Master holders often offer bundled services like company setup, hosting, and compliance support.

  • Flexibility: Sub-Licenses are accepted worldwide, giving you the ability to market your platform globally.

Step 2: Company Formation in Curaçao

Before you can apply for a Curaçao gaming license, you must first establish a legal entity in Curaçao. This is a mandatory requirement, as the license is only granted to companies registered within the jurisdiction.

Here’s what you need to know about the company formation process:

Choose a Legal Structure

Curaçao offers two common company types for gaming operators:

  • NV (Naamloze Vennootschap)

    • Equivalent to a public limited liability company.

    • Shares can be freely transferred.

    • Commonly chosen by larger operators.

  • BV (Besloten Vennootschap)

    • Equivalent to a private limited liability company.

    • Shares are privately held and not freely transferable.

    • Popular for startups and mid-sized businesses.

In most cases, operators choose a BV structure due to its flexibility and ease of management.

Local Director Requirement

  • Your company must appoint at least one local director who resides in Curaçao.

  • This ensures a direct connection to the jurisdiction and accountability to local authorities.

  • Many service providers supply “nominee directors” to fulfill this requirement legally.

Registered Office Address

  • Every company must maintain a physical registered office in Curaçao.

  • This address is where official correspondence and legal documents will be sent.

  • Service providers typically include this as part of their corporate setup package.

Corporate Documents

To complete incorporation, the following must be prepared and submitted:

  • Articles of Association (outlining the purpose and governance of the company).

  • Certificate of Incorporation (proof that your company is legally registered).

  • Shareholder Register (listing all owners and their shares).

  • Company bylaws (internal management rules).

Bank Account & Tax Registration

  • Your company will need a corporate bank account (often offshore-friendly).

  • Tax registration is required for compliance, though Curaçao offers competitive corporate tax rates for iGaming companies.

  • Many operators also integrate international banking or payment processing solutions to manage player deposits and withdrawals.

 

Using a Corporate Services Provider

  • Most operators hire a local corporate services provider to streamline the process.

  • These providers typically offer:

    • Company incorporation.

    • Provision of local directors.

    • Registered office services.

    • Assistance with banking and compliance setup.

  • Outsourcing ensures faster, smoother setup while avoiding costly mistakes.

Step 3: Prepare Documentation

Once your company is established, the next step is gathering the required documentation for your Curaçao gaming license application. This stage is critical, as incomplete or inaccurate documents are the most common reason applications get delayed. Both the company and its key individuals (shareholders, directors, and sometimes senior managers) must submit documentation for due diligence checks.

Personal Documents (for shareholders & directors)

Every individual associated with the company must provide documents that prove their identity, credibility, and financial standing.

  • Valid Passport Copy

    • Must be a clear, color scan of the photo page.

    • Passport must be valid for at least 6–12 months from the date of submission.

  • Proof of Address

    • Recent utility bill, bank statement, or government-issued document.

    • Must show the person’s name and residential address.

    • Usually required to be dated within the last 3 months.

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV) / Resume

    • Outlines professional experience and background.

    • Helps regulators assess whether directors/shareholders have relevant management or business experience.

  • Bank Reference Letter

    • Issued by a reputable bank where the individual holds an account.

    • Confirms that the applicant is a client in good standing.

    • Strengthens the financial credibility of the application.

Corporate Documents (for the company)

The Curaçao government and Master License holder need full transparency of the new entity’s structure, ownership, and purpose.

  • Company Incorporation Certificate

    • Official proof that the business has been legally registered in Curaçao.

  • Articles of Association

    • Defines the purpose, ownership, and governance of the company.

    • Required to show that the company’s activities align with gaming operations.

  • Shareholder Register

    • Lists all shareholders, their ownership percentages, and voting rights.

    • Helps regulators verify ultimate beneficial owners (UBOs).

  • Business Plan

    • Outlines how the iGaming operation will function, including:

      • Types of games (casino, sportsbook, poker, lottery).

      • Target markets and player demographics.

      • Projected revenue and operational forecasts.

      • Compliance and responsible gaming measures.

    • A well-prepared business plan demonstrates that the company has a clear strategy and sustainable model.

Best Practices for Documentation

  • Ensure accuracy – Names, addresses, and details must match across all documents.

  • Translate if necessary – Non-English documents should be officially translated.

  • Notarize copies – Some documents (like passports or Articles of Association) may require notarization.

  • Submit early – Start gathering documents before incorporation is complete to avoid delays.



Step 4: Meet Compliance Requirements

In 2025, Curaçao has significantly tightened its compliance framework to align with global best practices. While Curaçao is still considered one of the more accessible licensing jurisdictions, the updated rules ensure that licensed operators maintain credibility, player protection, and financial transparency.

Here’s what you must comply with when operating under a Curaçao gaming license in 2025:

Know Your Customer (KYC) Checks

  • Operators must verify the identity of all players before allowing deposits or withdrawals.

  • Required documents typically include:

    • Government-issued ID (passport, national ID, or driver’s license).

    • Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement dated within 3 months).

    • In some cases, proof of income or source of funds for high-value players.

  • KYC ensures you are not accepting players who are underage, banned, or engaged in fraudulent activities.

Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Policies

  • Operators must adopt and enforce AML procedures to prevent illegal funds from entering the system.

  • Requirements include:

    • Monitoring suspicious deposits, withdrawals, and betting patterns.

    • Reporting large or unusual transactions to relevant authorities.

    • Keeping transaction records for at least 5 years.

  • Staff training is also expected — employees should know how to detect red flags and escalate issues.

Responsible Gambling Measures

  • Curaçao now places greater emphasis on player protection.

  • Operators must:

    • Provide self-exclusion tools so players can block themselves from the platform.

    • Offer deposit, betting, and session limits to help players manage their spending.

    • Display clear information about gambling risks and helplines.

  • Demonstrating commitment to responsible gaming builds trust with regulators and players alike.

Secure Servers and Data Protection

  • Operators must ensure their platforms are safe for players by implementing:

    • SSL encryption for all transactions.

    • Hosting in approved, secure data centers.

    • DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) protection to prevent downtime.

    • GDPR-style data protection measures for player information.

  • Regular third-party security audits are recommended to prove compliance.

Ongoing Audits and Monitoring

  • Compliance doesn’t stop after licensing — it’s an ongoing obligation.

  • Regulators or Master License holders may conduct:

    • Regular checks on AML/KYC procedures.

    • Reviews of responsible gaming tools.

    • Security and financial audits.

  • Failure to comply can result in penalties, license suspension, or revocation.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

After setting up your company and preparing the required documents, the next major step is to submit your application to a Master License holder in Curaçao. Since only four Master License holders exist (and no new ones are being issued), all new operators in 2025 must go through one of these licensed entities to obtain a Sub-License.

The submission process is relatively straightforward but requires accuracy and transparency to avoid delays. Here’s how it works:

Application Form Submission

  • Complete the official application form provided by the Master License holder.

  • Include:

    • Company details (name, structure, incorporation number).

    • Shareholder and director information.

    • Business activities (casino, sportsbook, poker, lottery).

    • Target markets and intended audience.

  • Ensure the information matches your corporate documents and business plan.

Due Diligence Checks

  • Master License holders will perform background checks on all shareholders, directors, and key persons.

  • These checks focus on:

    • Criminal history (must provide police clearance certificates if requested).

    • Financial standing and credibility.

    • Past involvement in gaming or financial businesses.

  • The goal is to ensure that only fit and proper individuals are involved in licensed gaming operations.

Review of Corporate and Financial Documents

  • Submitted documents (see Step 3) are reviewed for completeness and compliance.

  • Typical checks include:

    • Verifying shareholder register and ownership percentages.

    • Ensuring the Articles of Association permit gaming-related activity.

    • Reviewing the business plan for feasibility and compliance with Curaçao law.

  • Missing or inconsistent documents are the biggest cause of delays — preparation is key.

Approval Process

  • Once due diligence and document checks are completed, the Master License holder prepares an approval recommendation.

  • If approved, your company is issued a Sub-License that grants you the right to operate.

  • The Sub-License is typically valid for 1 year and must be renewed annually.

Expected Timeline

  • Average approval time: 4–6 weeks, provided all documents are correct.

  • Delays can occur if:

    • Documents are incomplete or poorly translated.

    • Background checks uncover inconsistencies.

    • The business plan lacks sufficient detail.

  • Working with experienced service providers can cut down on errors and speed up approval.

Step 6: Pay the Licensing Fees

One of the main reasons Curaçao remains a top choice for iGaming entrepreneurs in 2025 is its affordable licensing fees compared to other gambling jurisdictions. While the exact fees depend on the service provider you choose and the scope of services included, the costs are still among the lowest in the global iGaming industry.

Here’s a breakdown of the typical fees you can expect when applying for a Curaçao Sub-License:

Setup Fee

  • USD $20,000 – $25,000 (varies by provider).

  • Covers:

    • Application processing.

    • Due diligence and compliance checks.

    • First year’s licensing cost.

  • Some providers include hosting, compliance support, or payment gateway setup in this fee.

  • Usually a one-time upfront payment at the beginning of the licensing process.

Annual Renewal Fee

  • USD $15,000 – $20,000 per year.

  • Ensures your Sub-License remains valid under the Master License.

  • Covers regulatory oversight, compliance reviews, and administration fees.

  • Paid directly to the Master License holder or through your service provider.

Corporate Setup Fee

  • USD $5,000 – $8,000 (one-time).

  • Covers the incorporation of your Curaçao company, including:

    • Registration with the Chamber of Commerce.

    • Drafting and filing of Articles of Association.

    • Provision of local director and registered office.

  • Some service providers bundle this into the setup fee.

Optional / Additional Costs

Depending on your business model, you may also need to budget for:

  • Hosting & IT infrastructure – secure servers, DDoS protection (~USD $3,000 – $6,000/year).

  • Payment gateway integration – setup for credit cards, e-wallets, crypto (~USD $2,000 – $5,000).

  • Legal & advisory services – drafting compliance manuals, terms & conditions (~USD $3,000 – $10,000).

  • Game provider integration fees – if using third-party software like slots, live dealers, or sportsbooks.

Comparison With Other Jurisdictions

To highlight Curaçao’s value, here’s how it compares with other licensing hubs:

  • Malta Gaming License (MGA): Setup costs often exceed USD $100,000, with annual fees of USD $25,000+.

  • Isle of Man: Setup fees can be USD $80,000 – $100,000, plus higher corporate tax.

  • Gibraltar: Often requires USD $70,000 – $90,000+ in initial setup, with ongoing strict audits.

By comparison, Curaçao offers a fraction of the cost while still providing international recognition.




Step 7: Set Up Hosting & Technical Infrastructure

Once your license fees are paid, the next requirement is to establish a secure and compliant technical environment for your iGaming platform. Curaçao regulators require operators to host their operations in approved data centers within Curaçao, ensuring that servers and systems are legally tied to the jurisdiction.

Here are the main elements you’ll need to cover:

Approved Server Location

  • Your servers must be hosted in Curaçao or at a government-approved data center.

  • This ensures:

    • Jurisdictional oversight of your operations.

    • Compliance with Curaçao gaming regulations.

    • Faster processing for license checks and audits.

  • Some service providers include co-location hosting packages designed specifically for gaming operators.

DDoS Protection (Distributed Denial of Service)

  • DDoS attacks are common in the online gambling industry.

  • Without protection, your platform could face downtime or malicious targeting.

  • Robust DDoS protection ensures:

    • Continuous uptime and player access.

    • Protection against fraud and competitor attacks.

    • Stability during high-traffic periods (e.g., sports events, jackpots).

SSL Encryption

  • Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption is mandatory for any licensed operator.

  • Protects sensitive player data such as:

    • Login credentials.

    • Payment details.

    • Personal identification documents (KYC).

  • SSL also builds trust with players — modern browsers flag non-SSL websites as unsafe.

Secure Payment Gateways

  • Your payment systems must integrate with trusted, PCI-compliant payment gateways.

  • Options include:

    • Credit and debit cards.

    • E-wallets (Neteller, Skrill, PayPal).

    • Bank transfers.

    • Cryptocurrency gateways (Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT).

  • Secure payment integration ensures smooth deposits/withdrawals while reducing fraud risk.

Compliance-Ready Hosting Solutions

  • Many Curaçao license service providers offer bundled hosting packages that meet all technical and compliance standards.

  • These packages often include:

    • Dedicated servers.

    • Firewalls and DDoS protection.

    • SSL certificates.

    • Data backup and recovery systems.

  • Outsourcing technical hosting allows operators to focus on business growth and marketing while staying fully compliant.

Ongoing Maintenance & Monitoring

  • Hosting is not a “set it and forget it” process. Operators must:

    • Regularly update security patches.

    • Monitor suspicious traffic.

    • Conduct routine backups to avoid data loss.

Perform security audits to maintain license validity.

Step 8: Integrate Payment & Banking Solutions

A licensed iGaming business isn’t complete without a secure and reliable payment system. Once your Curaçao license is approved, you’ll need to set up both banking arrangements and payment processing solutions that allow players to deposit and withdraw money seamlessly.

Here’s what Curaçao-licensed operators can access in 2025:

Credit & Debit Card Processing

  • Accepting Visa, Mastercard, and sometimes American Express is essential for global players.

  • Benefits:

    • Familiar and trusted by most players worldwide.

    • Fast and convenient deposit method.

  • Considerations:

    • Higher transaction fees compared to other methods.

    • Some banks may block gambling-related card transactions — ensure your payment processor supports iGaming.

E-Wallets

  • Popular e-wallets for iGaming include Skrill, Neteller, PayPal, and regional wallets.

  • Benefits:

    • Quick deposits and withdrawals (often instant).

    • Widely trusted in Europe, Asia, and Latin America.

    • Lower fraud risk due to additional authentication layers.

  • Considerations:

    • Transaction fees vary by provider.

    • Some e-wallets have regional restrictions on gambling transactions.

Bank Transfers

  • Traditional wire transfers and local banking options remain popular for high-value players.

  • Benefits:

    • Suitable for large deposits and withdrawals.

    • Adds credibility, especially for players who prefer traditional banking.

  • Considerations:

    • Longer processing times (1–5 business days).

    • May involve additional fees for international transfers.

Cryptocurrency Payments

  • Curaçao has become crypto-friendly, making it a top choice for blockchain casinos.

  • Commonly accepted coins: Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Tether (USDT), Litecoin (LTC), Binance Coin (BNB).

  • Benefits:

    • Near-instant transactions.

    • Lower transaction fees compared to cards/banks.

    • Global accessibility — especially useful in regions where fiat gambling payments face restrictions.

    • Appeals to modern players who prefer anonymity and decentralized finance.

  • Considerations:

    • Volatility of cryptocurrencies.

    • Need for secure wallets and AML checks to avoid fraud.

Banking Options for Curaçao Operators

  • Many operators open accounts with international or offshore banks that support iGaming.

  • Alternative: Payment Service Providers (PSPs) that specialize in gaming merchants.

  • Banking arrangements usually require:

    • Corporate incorporation documents.

    • Curaçao gaming license approval.

    • Compliance checks (AML/KYC).

Best Practices for Payment Integration

  • Offer multiple payment options (players expect variety).

  • Ensure all payment gateways are PCI-DSS compliant (global payment security standard).

  • Use fraud detection tools to flag suspicious transactions.

  • Provide transparent withdrawal terms (fast payouts = player trust).

  • Test payment systems before launch to avoid disruptions.

Step 9: Launch & Maintain Compliance

Once your Curaçao gaming license is approved, you can officially launch your iGaming platform. However, holding a license comes with ongoing obligations. Compliance doesn’t stop at approval — regulators and Master License holders expect operators to maintain high standards year after year.

Here are the key responsibilities after launch:

File Annual Reports

  • Submit yearly financial and operational reports to your Master License holder.

  • These reports demonstrate:

    • Your company’s stability.

    • Revenue sources and financial integrity.

    • Adherence to anti-money laundering (AML) and responsible gambling policies.

  • Reports are also useful for building credibility with banks and payment providers.

Renew License Fees

  • Licenses must be renewed annually, with fees typically between USD $15,000 – $20,000.

  • Renewal also confirms that you’re still compliant with Curaçao’s regulatory standards.

  • Missing renewal deadlines can lead to suspension or termination of your license.

Regular AML/KYC Audits

  • Regulators and Master License holders will periodically audit your:

    • Customer verification processes (KYC).

    • Transaction monitoring systems (AML).

    • Record-keeping and suspicious activity reports.

  • Keeping detailed records ensures audits are smooth and stress-free.

Stay Updated on Curaçao Regulatory Changes

  • Curaçao has been modernizing its framework since 2023–2025.

  • New compliance requirements may be introduced to align with EU and global standards.

  • Operators should:

    • Subscribe to regulatory updates.

    • Consult legal/compliance advisors regularly.

    • Adjust internal policies promptly.

Maintain Player Protection & Security

  • Compliance is also about safeguarding players.

  • Ongoing obligations include:

    • Updating responsible gambling tools (self-exclusion, deposit limits).

    • Running security checks on servers and payment gateways.

Maintaining SSL certificates and data encryption.

Step 10: Promote Your Licensed Casino

Securing your Curaçao gaming license is an achievement — but success depends on how well you market and grow your casino brand. With thousands of competitors in the global iGaming space, effective promotion is the key to standing out.

Here are proven strategies for 2025:

SEO & Content Marketing

  • Publish high-quality content that targets iGaming keywords (casino, sportsbook, slots, crypto gambling).

  • Build out blog posts, guides, and FAQ sections to attract organic traffic.

  • Optimize on-page SEO (titles, meta descriptions, internal linking).

  • Example: Link to cornerstone guides like “Step-by-Step Curaçao Gaming License Guide” or your Contact Us page.

Affiliate Partnerships

  • Partner with iGaming affiliates who promote casinos through blogs, reviews, and comparison sites.

  • Provide attractive commission structures (CPA, revenue share, or hybrid).

  • Affiliates can deliver ready-made traffic and brand exposure in competitive regions.

Paid Advertising in Accepted Markets

  • Run targeted PPC (pay-per-click) campaigns on Google, Bing, and gambling ad networks.

  • Focus on jurisdictions that recognize Curaçao licenses, such as Asia and Latin America.

  • Test different campaigns for casino games, sports betting, or crypto gambling.

Social Media & Influencer Marketing

  • Use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to build your brand presence.

  • Collaborate with influencers in iGaming, esports, or crypto to reach new audiences.

  • Share promotions, new game launches, and jackpot winners to increase engagement.

Retention Marketing

  • Acquiring new players is important — but keeping them is even more profitable.

  • Retention strategies include:

    • Welcome bonuses and reload promotions.

    • Loyalty programs and VIP clubs.

    • Personalized email marketing campaigns.

  • The goal is to maximize lifetime value (LTV) of each player.

Conclusion

Applying for a Curaçao gaming license in 2025 is still one of the fastest and most affordable ways to enter the global online gambling industry. By following the step-by-step process — from company formation to compliance, payments, and launch — you can establish a trusted and legally recognized operation within weeks.

If you’re ready to take the next step, our experts can guide you through the process.

Apply for Consultation

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