Jamaica finalises casino gaming regulations
The Jamaican Casino Gaming Act finally has a regulatory foundation.
Jamaica.- The Jamaican Senate has approved the country’s Casino Gaming (General) Regulations 2025, paving the way for the launch of a land-based gambling industry. The Senate approval follows the House of Representatives’ endorsement in February, finally giving the Casino Gaming Act of 2010 the regulatory foundation it’s long lacked.
The framework sets out licensing requirements, reporting obligations, fee structures and enforcement powers aimed at boosting transparency and accountability. Measures include a ban on gambling by intoxicated individuals, procedures for handling minors, tracking of player activity and clear dispute resolution processes.
During the Senate debate on Friday, Senator Kamina Johnson Smith said the framework was designed to “safeguard the well-being of patrons and the integrity of operations”. She also said the Casino Gaming Commission (CGC) would align its oversight with international standards for preventing financial crime.
Senator Dr Elon Thompson described the regulations as striking a balance between attracting investment and ensuring responsible oversight. Speaking to the Jamaica Observer, he said the new rules would ensure regulators can pursue active harm reduction rather than passive monitoring.
The first regulated casino in Jamaica is expected to be at the Princess Grand Jamaica resort in Hanover. The $400m project by Princess Hotels and Resorts has faced repeated delays. Managing director Enzo Pezzoli most recently mentioned an early 2026 opening, but no date has yet been confirmed.
In March, CGC CEO Cleveland Allen reaffirmed the regulator’s commitment to integrity. The regulator has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Financial Investigations Division to enhance cooperation on financial crime risks ahead of Jamaica’s first casino opening. The government’s push to expand gaming also includes online gambling, but regulation in the area remains incomplete.
