Legalization potential (Jamaica)

The potential for legalizing online gambling (Jamaica)

1) Current position: legal vacuum and subdued growth

• Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Act (1965) - regulates betting and lotteries;
• Casino Gaming Act (2010) - allows casinos only as part of Integrated Resort Developments (IRD);
• AML/CFT Framework - establishes supervision and reporting for all operators.

Because none of these acts cover online gambling, players actually turn to offshore sites, leading to leaked taxes and a lack of protection for consumers.

2) Why online gambling will be an inevitable step

1. Digitalization of the economy.

Jamaica is actively promoting the digital agenda - from the introduction of JAM-DEX (CBDC) to the development of online public administration services. Legalization of online gambling will logically fit into the strategy of the digital economy.

2. Tourism and IRD projects.

Large resorts with casinos (Princess Grand Jamaica, Hard Rock Montego Bay) will be aimed at international guests. The online component (virtual bets, club applications) will keep customers after the trip.

3. Regional trend.

The Bahamas, Barbados and even Trinidad are already discussing online licenses, and Colombia implemented a transparent digital model back in 2016. Jamaica risks falling behind its neighbours if it does not launch its regime.

4. Budget and jobs.

According to regional analysts, licensing online gambling can bring from 15 to 30 million USD annually with 10-15 licensed operators and hundreds of local jobs in IT, analytics and marketing.

3) Possible regulation model

A phased approach is optimal for Jamaica - the integration of online gambling into the existing BGLC and CGC control architecture.

Stage 1 - amendments to the BGLA.

Introduction of the concept of Remote Gaming Operator and Online Betting Platform with mandatory licensing and GGR tax (for example, 15%).

Stage 2 - unified digital monitoring system.

Expansion of the Gaming Management Information System (GMIS) for the online segment - bet control, reporting, Responsible Gaming and KYC.

Stage 3 - integration with fintech.

Using JAM-DEX, local banks and mobile wallets for deposits and payments, which will increase the transparency and security of transactions.

Stage 4 - Tourism and B2B.

Allowing online games for tourists staying in IRD hotels, with identification by reservation number and restriction of access for minors.

4) Economic and social effects

Tax revenue growth. Licensing will create a new budget item that can be directed to social programs.

Legalization of the "gray" market. Hundreds of thousands of dollars going offshore will remain in the country.

Player control and protection. Licensed operators will be required to implement limits, Responsible Gaming and secure payouts.

Development of IT infrastructure. There will be local software providers, support services, payment gateways.

Image advantages. A regulated digital ecosystem would increase the country's credibility as a safe investment jurisdiction.

5) Risks and challenges

Need for supervision. You will have to train personnel to monitor online operators.

AML/CFT. Standards for digital transactions and crypto operations need to be updated.

Responsible play. Online products require special self-monitoring tools and limit notifications.

Tax administration integration. The system should be transparent so as not to scare off investors with excessive fees.

6) Forecast: 2025-2030

Experts expect that the first online gambling bill could be submitted to parliament in 2026-2027, after the launch of the IRD casino and the successful testing of GMIS.

By 2030, Jamaica could become the first English-speaking Caribbean country with comprehensive offline and online gambling regulation overseen by the BGLC.

• growing digital sector, financial infrastructure with JAM-DEX, ready institutional base of BGLC and CGC.

The question is not if but when the country will make that move. With the right model - with a balance between revenue, control and responsibility - Jamaica could be the new Caribbean hub for online gambling, combining safety, innovation and tourist appeal.