Guyana tables comprehensive gambling reform bill in National Assembly

A bill to overhaul Guyana's gambling sector has been formally introduced in the country's National Assembly. The Guyana Gaming Authority Bill, presented by Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, received its first reading in Parliament and aims to create a unified regulatory framework covering licensing, supervision, taxation, and control of all gaming activities.

The proposed legislation would significantly enhance oversight by expanding the regulatory authority of the Guyana Gaming Authority over operators. It includes provisions for regulating gaming equipment, establishing a Responsible Gaming Fund, enforcing anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing requirements, and setting administrative penalties and enforcement measures for non-compliance.

The move follows months of government discussion about reforming the gambling landscape. Officials have voiced concern over what they describe as a rapid increase in gambling activity, particularly through mobile apps and physical betting outlets. In October, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo noted that gambling had moved beyond its original purpose of supporting the hotel industry, becoming far more accessible via digital platforms and a growing number of betting locations.

While the government has stated it does not intend to ban gambling, it insists the sector must operate under stricter regulation and taxation. Last month, the government also announced plans to broaden its stakeholder engagement programme in the coming months, addressing not only gambling-related issues but also substance abuse and alcohol misuse.