The Belizean government has intensified its enforcement against unauthorized gaming operations, issuing dual public advisories this week targeting unlicensed raffles and gambling activities. The Ministry of Investment and Lotteries Committee jointly emphasized that operating slot machines, casino games, poker tables, or raffles without proper authorization constitutes a criminal offense under the Gambling Prevention Act and Lotteries Control Act.
The timing of this crackdown coincides with the peak Christmas season when numerous businesses and community organizations traditionally conduct fundraising raffles. Regulations mandate that any raffle with prizes totaling $500 or more requires formal written authorization, with approved operations receiving official reference numbers that must appear on all tickets.
Public response has revealed significant discontent, particularly regarding the perceived disproportionate impact on marginalized communities. Social media commentary highlights concerns that the regulations primarily affect grassroots fundraising efforts for medical expenses, educational support, and emergency assistance. One critic noted: ‘Only the poor will suffer from this. Single mothers frequently organize raffles to support their children, while others use them to cover urgent medical bills.’
Simultaneously, the government continues to advance the Gaming and Lotteries Control Bill 2025, which proposes to consolidate four existing gambling statutes into a unified regulatory framework. However, following November Senate deliberations, legislators determined the bill requires additional refinement before final approval.
In a related development, authorities reiterated their June warning about online gaming platforms falsely claiming Belizean licensing. The nation maintains a complete moratorium on issuing online gaming licenses, meaning no company is legally authorized to operate digital gambling services from Belize.