(AsiaGameHub) –   The Senate of Jamaica has given its approval to the Casino (General) Gaming Regulations 2025 Bill, a legislative measure that empowers the Caribbean nation to issue licenses and oversee land-based casino resorts and related investments.

This Bill, approved on Friday, April 17th, will enable the Casino Gaming Commission (CGC) to put into effect the foundational legal provisions of the Casino Gaming Act. This Act, initiated in 2010, established the legislative framework for developing a regulatory system for casinos in Jamaica.

The Gaming Regulations were essential to finalize the Act, detailing requirements for licensing, qualifications for management, record-keeping protocols, licensing fees and duties, as well as the inspection and enforcement powers of the Commission.

With this regulatory structure now established, Jamaica is set to implement its Integrated Resort Development (IRD) model. Under this model, casinos will be integrated into large-scale tourism projects rather than operating as independent establishments.

Each IRD will be mandated to include substantial non-gaming amenities, such as hotels, entertainment options, cultural attractions, and family-oriented experiences.

The regulations also incorporate stringent measures for responsible gambling. Operators will be required to implement systems for age verification, advertising controls, the protection of vulnerable individuals, and the monitoring of gaming activities across both physical and digital platforms.

A specific legal framework for land-based casinos and IRDs was necessary because Jamaica’s primary gambling legislation, the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Act of 1965, did not include provisions for casino resorts, being limited to sports betting, gaming machine franchises, and lotteries.

The 1965 Act assigned the oversight and enforcement powers for gambling in Jamaica to the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Commission (BGLC).

However, casino resorts will now fall under the purview of the Casino Gaming Commission (CGC), which will be responsible for implementing the specific framework for land-based casino venues.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness has emphasized that the government’s objective is not to position Jamaica as a casino-centric destination. Instead, the aim is to utilize the IRD model to diversify the country’s tourism offerings while maintaining strict regulatory oversight.

@andrewmholness

It is not the government’s intention to make Jamaica a casino or gambling destination. These will not be standalone casinos where anyone can just walk in off the street. We are creating integrated resorts, where gambling is just one part of a bigger experience. If gambling isn’t your interest, you can enjoy the beach, tours, or other attractions. We are also growing our cultural and entertainment offerings. We are building a performing arts institution in Montego Bay and planning attractions like an oceanarium. We want visitors to come for theatre, culture, and fun, not just gambling. Casinos will be part of the tourism experience, not the focus. This policy is about broadening tourism, creating jobs, and giving visitors and Jamaicans more to enjoy.

♬ original sound – Most Hon. Andrew M. Holness

The first project anticipated to move forward under the new framework is the $500 million Princess Resort IRD, which can now commence the formal licensing process.

This IRD project is designed to incorporate a casino within a comprehensive luxury hospitality offering, combining a gaming resort with beachfront accommodation, entertainment venues, and leisure amenities, aligning with Jamaica’s policy of avoiding standalone casinos.

The resort is supported by Spain’s Princessa Hotels & Resorts and is part of a broader tourism investment designated for the Parish of Hanover, encompassing the existing Princess Grand Jamaica and Princess Senses The Mangrove properties.

CGC Chairman Clovis Metcalfe will lead the implementation of Jamaica’s Integrated Resort Development (IRD) model, guiding the launch of the country’s inaugural casino resorts under the new regulatory framework.

Leadership from both the CGC and the BGLC have also expressed willingness to explore the possibility of establishing a unified regulatory body for Jamaica’s gambling sector, consolidating oversight for racing, land-based gaming, and sports betting franchises under a single authority.

The approval of these regulations signifies a major advancement for Jamaica’s gaming sector, transitioning the market from a long-standing legislative structure to a fully operational regime and attracting international investment under clear and enforceable rules.