Jamaica Considering Legalizing Casino Gambling

When people think of the Caribbean they think of fun in the sun. The future, however, may take that fun indoors, into casinos. That is what Jamaican lawmakers will be discussing on Tuesday.

The Jamaican Parliament is considering legalizing casinos on the island. Two companies have shown interest in bringing casino gambling to Jamaica, and the government is looking for ways to help amidst the economic crisis facing the world.

"Casinos in Jamaica makes sense," said observer Harry Frenzely, "It already is a tourist destination, and if they can compete with the Bahamas for the gambling dollar, their tourism industry would grow even further."

The extent of casino gambling these days in Jamaica is a couple of hundred slot machines that are being played in hotels. That is not enough, according to gambling proponents, to make a difference for the country.

Prime Minister Bruce Golding claims the companies interested are eyeing Montego Bay and Trelawny. He says that the starting point for any casino bids would be a 2,000 room hotel and a $1.5 billion minimum investment.

Many US casino companies have already started branching out around the world, though most have been focused on Macau, Malaysia, and Singapore. The Jamaican market could become a desired location if the opportunity were to open up.

June 27, 2009
Posted By Terry Goodwin
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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