BGLC said since going live with the new platform it has identified
additional enhancements to roll out in the coming year.
August 13, 2025
Betting, Gaming and Lottery Commission warns about unlicensed bookmakers
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Commission (BGLC) is strongly advising members of the public on the illegality of placing bets with bookmakers that are not licensed to operate in Jamaica, and the attendant risks with such wagers.
In a release on Wednesday, the BGLC noted it is aware that the betting and gaming industry requires a different level of oversight than it did in previous years.
It called on the betting public to be particularly vigilant about the lures of unlicensed bookmakers.
Under Jamaican law, only bookmakers and gaming operators that have been duly licensed and authorised by the BGLC are permitted to accept bets from persons located within the country.
The BGLC stressed that engaging in betting activities with unlicensed operators—whether online or otherwise—violates the Betting Gaming and Lotteries Act and can expose individuals to significant risks, including loss of funds with no legal recourse, unfair or rigged games, exposure to fraudulent activity or identity theft, and the lack of responsible gaming safeguards.
Members of the public are being urged to verify the licensing status of any betting or gaming operator before placing bets and are being reminded that a list of licensed operators is available on the commission’s website at www.bglc.gov.jm.
The BGLC further warned that it will take action against illegal operators and anyone who supports or promotes illegal betting.
In emphasising the need to keep the BGLC in step with the changing industry conditions, Executive Director of the Commission, Vitus Evans acknowledged that, “There is certainly a shift to online gaming and we need to look at advancing the legislative framework to properly recognise and address the increasingly tech-driven nature of gaming and the various impacts of that shift.”
“Times have changed, and it’s to be noted that more young people are involved in online gaming. It’s therefore about how we look at unlicensed companies offering the same services as those registered in our jurisdiction. Right now, we think there is revenue leakage taking place in terms of a number of local Jamaicans who actually bet on unauthorised sites. We have a responsibility to ensure that all games are legitimate and properly licensed.”
The BGLC is encouraging members of the public to report any suspected illegal or suspicious betting activities by emailing customerservice@bglc.gov.jm or calling (876) 639-1353.
