Trinidad and Tobago approves online gambling legislation

Trinidad and Tobago’s government has approved the remote gambling regulation bill that should be implemented by January 2027. The Gambling (Gaming and Betting) (Remote Gambling) Order 2026 received the approval of the Senate on October 2. The House of Representatives also approved it without any objection. With the bill passed into law, the provisions of the Gambling, Gaming and Betting Control Act that were criminalizing gaming operators providing remote gambling services outside Trinidad and Tobago are being removed. Victor John, a lawyer and an expert on iGaming stated that with the new regulations, Trinidad and Tobago will be able to attract iGaming companies wishing to provide services to clients both within and outside the country. According to Attorney General John Jeremie, the remaining administrative aspects of the licensing process will be implemented in Trinidad and Tobago by January 1, 2027. Until then, the Gambling Control Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (GCC) will work with the Central Bank to establish the operational framework. This will include digital payment integration and licensing for electronic money issuers. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo said regulated remote gambling will create additional economic opportunities in the country. Minister of Planning, Economic Affairs and Development Kennedy Swaratsingh said: Overall, the data indicates overall growth in the sector. In light of the objective of this order, which is to legislate remote gambling and create economic opportunity, the figures paint a positive picture for Trinidad and Tobago in the gambling sector. We intend to do this through proper regulation, rather than simply permitting unrestricted gambling activity. Through this Bill, the government has boldly taken the opportunity to establish a regulated industry which can create opportunities for economic activity while strengthening the State’s ability to monitor participating operators. Trinidad and Tobago already has a regulated gambling sector. The sector generated $10.74 million in revenue in 2025.