BELIZE CITY, Mon. Feb. 21, 2022– The Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment is reportedly cracking down on online gaming websites which are claiming to have an online gaming license from Belize.

“All other entities that claim to have an online gaming license from Belize must immediately cease and desist since their operations are clandestine and illegal,” said a press release issued by the Ministry.

Online gambling in Belize was first officially legalized and codified in 1995, through the Computer Wagering Licensing Act, which was last modified in 2000.

The Belize Computing Wagering Licensing Board regulates any and all online gambling and betting licensing in the country. However, setting up a gambling institution is not an easy process, since the board does not have a website or readily available contact information.
By law, licensed online gambling and betting companies may not offer their services to residents of Belize. Applicants are vetted, and only a “fit and proper person” will be considered eligible for a license.

Licensed companies are required to maintain a separate bank account, which is only used to process wagers, and may charge a processing fee up to 5%, or USD 20, whichever is greater. Operators also face a 15% withholding tax on payments of winnings or prizes. Licenses are valid for a year, from April 1 to March 31.

The press release issued by the Finance, Economic Development and Investment Ministry stated that all online gaming companies in Belize require licensing under the Gaming Control Act and its Online Gaming Regulations. Online Gaming Licenses are issued by the Gaming Control Board of Belize to companies of reputable standing and with a proven track record in gaming.

The only online gaming company with a license to operate from Belize is Mum Casino Ltd.