Trinidad and Tobago Moves to Formalize Gambling Industry With New Law

The House of Representatives has approved legislation that sets the stage for licensing and regulating remote gambling in Trinidad and Tobago. 

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Under previous laws, operators were prohibited from offering such services internationally and faced penalties ranging from fines of up to $10 million to prison terms of up to ten years. The new law, supported by both government and opposition members, is designed to bring those activities into the formal economy.

“Licensing remote gambling will bring both existing and new operators into the formal economy, ensuring that they contribute taxes,” Minister of Finance Davendranath Tancoo stated in the parliamentary debate.

Capturing a fast growing market

Minister Tancoo pointed to the revenue already generated by regulated gaming, noting collections of about $72.66 million in 2025 and $71.3 million so far in 2026.

“These numbers represent an indication, a clear indication, that regulated gaming already provides a measurable revenue stream to the State and free, and this reinforces the need of bringing additional gambling activity within the formal system,” he stated according to local news outlet, TTT Live Online. He added that licensing remote gambling will allow both existing and new operators “to pay their fair share to the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago via the Board of Inland Revenue.” 

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The legislation also ties digital payment systems to established regulators. The Central Bank has already begun licensing e‑money issuers and launched consultations on a payment systems bill, ensuring that remote gambling transactions remain under strict supervision.

“The Government’s approach to licensing and digital payment issues is that these matters will continue to be regulated by the relevant regulators in Trinidad and Tobago. In this case, the Gambling Gaming and Betting Control Commission and the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago.” 

Tancoo argued that prohibition had failed, while regulation offers a path to a properly managed industry. He said the framework will generate employment, attract foreign exchange, and increase government revenue. 

The Senate is expected to look at the proposal today, and if they decide to go through with it, Trinidad and Tobago will become the fourth country in the region with a legal offshore gambling framework.

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