BGLC to tighten regulations on advertising in gambling industry
Published:Wednesday | November 15, 2023 | 12:10 AM
One year after declaring its concern about the effect of advertising in the gambling industry, the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Commission, BGLC, has taken took another step towards tighter regulation.
Stakeholders have until December 1 to make their submissions in the BGLC’s recently launched public survey. The commission will also be staging a public consultation on November 20 in Kingston as it considers proposals to implement fresh regulations in the promotion and advertising of gambling and gambling-related products in Jamaica.
It’s also launched an e-survey, which can be accessed at www.bglcconsultation.com.
In the meantime, the agency says its own recently commissioned research has found that: children and youth are aware of and engaging in gambling-related activity to a greater extent and greater numbers than previously thought; most of the awareness about gambling is as a direct result of marketing and advertising of gambling and gambling-related products; an overwhelming majority of respondents are not fully aware of the risks related to gambling; and there is a sentiment that marketing communications are misleading and do not highlight the risks related to gambling.
Gambling is a multibillion-dollar market in Jamaica, with Supreme Ventures Limited being the top player.
In the June quarter, industry sales topped $61 billion, with revenue to the government estimated at $2.94 billion.