Gambling Sector Reform
Building a modern gambling sector for Sint Maarten
As part of the Government of Sint Maarten's broader reform agenda, the gambling sector is undergoing a comprehensive modernization. The reform is designed to establish a transparent, responsible and sustainable regulatory framework that supports economic development while protecting the public interest.
The reform is led by the **Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT)** and forms part of the Country Package (*Landspakket*) agreed between Sint Maarten and the Netherlands in December 2020. Within the Country Package, the gambling reform is included under **Measure H.2 – Strengthening the Rule of Law**. The measure provides for a review and modernization of both the land-based and online gambling sectors, with the objective of strengthening governance, increasing public revenues, improving integrity and promoting responsible gambling.
Why reform is needed
The gambling sector has been an important contributor to Sint Maarten's tourism economy for decades. Casinos, lotteries and other games of chance form part of the island's hospitality offering and provide employment and economic activity.
At the same time, the regulatory framework has remained largely unchanged for many years. During that period the gambling industry has evolved considerably, particularly through technological developments and the emergence of online gambling. International expectations regarding transparency, anti-money laundering measures, responsible gambling and regulatory oversight have also increased significantly.
The reform programme therefore aims to create legislation and institutions that are fit for today's realities while supporting a healthy and well-regulated gambling market.
The objectives of the reform
The reform programme is built around four strategic objectives:
An independent regulator
The establishment of the Sint Maarten Gambling Authority as an independent regulatory authority responsible for licensing, supervision and enforcement.
Integrity and compliance
Strengthening integrity throughout the gambling sector through effective supervision, fit and proper assessments, anti-money laundering (AML/CFT) measures and cooperation with national and international partners.
Player protection
Creating a safer gambling environment through responsible gambling policies, consumer protection, public awareness and measures to reduce gambling-related harm.
Sustainable public revenues
Developing a transparent and sustainable financing model that enables effective supervision while ensuring that government revenues are collected fairly and efficiently.
A comprehensive programme
The gambling reform extends far beyond drafting a new gambling ordinance. The programme includes:
Together, these elements form the foundation for a modern gambling regulatory framework that meets both national priorities and international standards.
Working together
The reform is being implemented through close cooperation between the Government of Sint Maarten and its national and international partners.
The Ministry of TEATT leads the programme, supported by an interdepartmental working group involving multiple ministries and government organizations. Technical assistance is provided through the implementation arrangements of the Country Package, ensuring that expertise and international best practices are incorporated into the reform process.
Current status
The programme is currently moving from the policy development phase toward implementation. Recent work has included:
- • Development of a new Gambling Ordinance
- • Preparation for the establishment of the Gambling Authority
- • Development of an implementation and operationalization framework
- • Research into gambling participation and gambling-related harm
- • Consultation with stakeholders
- • Development of future licensing, supervisory and enforcement frameworks
As the reform progresses, this website will provide regular updates on legislation, implementation milestones, consultations and opportunities for stakeholder engagement.
Looking ahead
The establishment of the Sint Maarten Gambling Authority represents an important milestone in strengthening good governance within the gambling sector. The Authority will contribute to:
Ultimately, the reform aims to create a gambling sector that is well regulated, socially responsible and contributes sustainably to the economic development of Sint Maarten.