Sports betting in Trinidad and Tobago is governed primarily by the Gambling and Betting Act (Cap. 11:21), which was first enacted in 1976 and has since been amended to regulate wagering activities across the jurisdiction. Under this Act, only licensed bookmakers and gaming establishments may offer sports betting services, and all operations must comply with strict regulatory standards set by the Betting Levy Board and the Gaming Commission (1).
Recent reforms introduced by the Gambling (Gaming and Betting) Control Act, 2021, modernize the licensing framework, consolidate regulatory oversight, and address remote and online wagering. The 2021 Act establishes clear criteria for applicants and empowers regulators to impose penalties for unlicensed operations, reinforcing consumer protection and integrity in the sector (2).
"Subject to subsection (2), the following persons may apply for a licence under this Act: (a) a person who is eighteen years of age and older; or (b) a company incorporated under the laws of Trinidad and Tobago. An application must include the prescribed form, fee, and risk assessment documentation."
Offences under the Gambling and Betting Act include operating a betting pool without a licence, facilitating remote gambling, and allowing minors to wager. Convictions can result in fines up to TT$5 million and/or imprisonment for up to two years, underscoring the government's commitment to strict enforcement and legal compliance (1).
Source:
https://laws.gov.tt/ttdll-web2/revision/download/53611?type=act
https://news.gov.tt/sites/default/files/E-Gazette/Gazette%202021/Bills/Senate/Senate%20Bill%20No.%207%20of%202021%20-%20Gambling%20%28Gaming%20and%20Betting%29%20Control%20Act%2C%202021.qxp.pdf
Last updated: 28-05-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
