Government Exploring Possibilities for Internet Gaming

Government is mindful of the potential of iGaming or Internet Gaming and is reviewing the possibilities for regulating this platform in Jamaica, says Minister with Responsibility for the Public Service in the Ministry of Finance and Planning, Hon. Horace Dalley.

“Internet Gaming is the future of gaming. This online gaming business is advancing and changing the model of the gambling industry worldwide, as many consumers turn to the Internet to bet on sports, gamble on slots, or play cards,” Mr. Dalley noted.

The Minister, who was making his contribution to the 2014/15 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives on July 8, said studies show that iGaming already produces more than US$20 billion in worldwide revenue, with the potential to grow even further.

“The last Juniper Research study in the United States projects that Internet-placed bets will reach US$100 billion by 2017,” he informed.

Mr. Dalley said Internet gaming is taking place in Jamaica, but it is currently unregulated.  As such, the Government is making every effort to regulate and bring order to iGaming in Jamaica over the next year, the Minister emphasised.

“It is time that we make that progression to this methodology of gaming, as Jamaicans are already well equipped with the devices to facilitate this. The legal and regulatory framework must be in place to enable the Government to earn revenues from this activity,” the Minister said.