In a move to combat gambling addiction among children and other vulnerable Jamaicans, the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Commission (BGLC) has implemented strict advertising rules for licensed operators in Jamaica.
According to the BGLC, the new regulations aim to protect minors and individuals at risk of developing gambling problems by limiting the exposure to gambling advertising. The rules prohibit operators from targeting minors in any of their marketing campaigns and require all advertisements to carry responsible gambling messages.
Speaking on the importance of these regulations, BGLC Chairman, Clovis Metcalfe, highlighted the need for the industry to take responsibility in preventing gambling addiction among vulnerable groups.
“We have a duty to protect our citizens, especially our youth and those who may be prone to developing gambling problems,” Metcalfe said. “By enforcing these strict advertising rules, we are taking proactive steps to ensure that the negative impacts of gambling are minimized in our society.”
Under the new regulations, operators are required to include responsible gambling messages in all their advertisements, such as “Bet with Caution” and “Know When to Stop.” Additionally, operators are prohibited from using child-friendly themes or images in their advertisements.
The BGLC has also introduced guidelines for the use of social media platforms, requiring operators to monitor and remove any content that targets minors or promotes irresponsible gambling behavior.
In response to the new regulations, major operators in Jamaica, such as Supreme Ventures Limited, have expressed their support for the measures put in place by the BGLC.
“We understand the importance of responsible gambling and are committed to ensuring that our advertising campaigns comply with the BGLC regulations,” said Ann Dawn Young-Sang, President and CEO of Supreme Ventures Limited.
The BGLC has warned that operators who fail to comply with the regulations risk facing penalties, including fines and suspension of their licenses.
Overall, the BGLC’s efforts to combat gambling addiction among children and other vulnerable Jamaicans are seen as a positive step towards creating a safer and more responsible gambling environment in the country. The commission continues to work closely with operators to enforce these regulations and promote responsible gambling practices throughout Jamaica.
