Jamaica's Casino Gaming Commission (CGC) has issued a public warning against illegal casino-style gambling, stressing that no licensed casino is currently operating in the country.
The regulator said real-money table games, including blackjack, roulette and baccarat, offered at bars, lounges, clubs and private venues are operating without the required authorisation.
The warning comes during Illegal Gambling Awareness Week, held from 9 to 13 November and organised by the International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR).
According to the CGC, players participating in unlicensed gambling activities face increased risks because these operations are not subject to regulatory oversight or consumer protection requirements.
CGC Chief Executive Cleveland Allen highlighted the absence of safeguards at illegal gambling venues, including assurances of fair gaming and access to formal complaint procedures.
Under Jamaica's Casino Gaming Act, casino gambling is permitted only at licensed operations within approved integrated resort developments.
Although the commission approved the country's first Casino Operator's Licence for Adamas Grand Casino Limited earlier this year, the first licensed casino is not expected to begin operations until 2027.
The CGC also clarified that its existing legislation does not authorise it to take direct enforcement action against illegal casino-style gambling operators. Instead, the regulator can refer suspected violations to law enforcement authorities for further investigation.
Throughout the awareness campaign, the commission will provide public information on identifying illegal gambling activities, understanding player protections and reporting suspected unlicensed operations.
The initiative follows the CGC's participation in the IAGR Annual Conference in Lima, Peru, in late October. During the conference, Allen chaired a panel examining regulatory approaches for newer and smaller gaming jurisdictions.
Discussions also addressed broader challenges facing gambling regulators, including the expansion of illegal and unlicensed gaming activities.
The CGC continues to develop Jamaica's regulated casino industry while encouraging the public to avoid unlicensed gambling venues ahead of the sector's anticipated launch.
Adamas Grand Casino Limited received Jamaica's first Casino Operator's Licence earlier this year
