Jamaica casino commission says no licensed casinos are operating
Enforcement & compliance1 min read
Jamaica’s Casino Gaming Commission said no licensed casino is currently operating in the country and that cash blackjack, roulette and baccarat games at bars, clubs and other venues lack authorisation. The Commission granted Adamas Grand Casino Limited the first operator licence in early 2026, with the first authorised casino expected to open in 2027.
Jamaica's Casino Gaming Commission said no licensed casino is operating in the country and warned that cash table games at other venues are unauthorised. The regulator said blackjack, roulette and baccarat require a licence when offered in bars, clubs, halls or private premises.
The commission granted Adamas Grand Casino Limited the first casino operator licence in early 2026. The first authorised casino is expected to begin operating in 2027.
The commission cannot directly inspect illegal operations and refers complaints to law enforcement authorities. Its executive director, Cleveland Allen, said people playing unauthorised casino games lack the protections available at regulated establishments. He said players have no supervisory authority to approach about possible irregularities and no regulatory guarantees of game transparency. Allen said the first licensed casino would provide those protections to Jamaican residents and foreign visitors.
The warning was issued during Illegal Gambling Awareness Week, which runs from 9 to 13 November and brings together regulators from different jurisdictions. The International Association of Gaming Regulators organises the initiative, and the commission is a member.