Gaming and Betting Commission set for 2027

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley. Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has announced plans to launch the BVI’s Gaming and Betting Commission in 2027, alongside updated legislation and regulations to govern the sector. Dr Wheatley outlined the proposal in his 2027 Budget Address as part of the government’s plans for investment, tourism and business development. “We will also launch in 2027 the Gaming and Betting Commission and an updated Gaming and Betting Act and regulations, creating a well-regulated sector that attracts investment and promotes responsible gaming,” he stated at the time..

The announcement sets a new timetable for the commission, which the territory’s 2020 gaming legislation provided for. Former Governor Augustus Jaspert assented to the Gaming and Betting Control Act on August 18, 2020. The legislation provided for a commission to regulate the local gaming and betting sectors. The Commission’s responsibilities included granting licences, imposing licensing conditions, checking applicants’ backgrounds and reviewing licensed operations. It also identified powers to collect fees and levies and suspend or revoke licences where operators failed to comply with the law. Previous administrations had announced timetables for putting the regulatory body in place. Former Premier Andrew Fahie said he expected the commission’s board to…