The Guyanese government is preparing to introduce tougher regulations and higher taxes on gambling amid growing concern from religious and public health organizations over its social and economic effect on families.
Speaking at his weekly press briefing, Guyana’s Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo said the spread of mobile betting has turned gambling into a significant national concern. “The moment when you have four or five hundred outlets in every village across the country, and it’s all run on an app, it’s creating a major social problem,” he said.
Initially, gambling in Guyana was restricted to hotel-based casinos as a way to boost tourism, and licences were issued under strict conditions, including a minimum of 150 hotel rooms.
