Playtech Applies for Jersey Gambling License

Playtech has become the first online gambling company to apply for an egambling license from Jersey's gambling jurisdiction, it was reported recently.

The leading developer of interactive gambling and betting games, Playtech, confirmed that it had met with Jersey officials in Israel in recent months in order to discuss the application process and the benefits for the group.

The move will definitely help Jersey establish itself as a leading online gambling licensing jurisdiction, something it has been trying to do since the necessary laws were passed in 2008.

Since then, however, the island has faced many hurdles, including the fact it is still not on the UK's recognised gambling jurisdictions whitelist, which would allow operators licensed by Jersey to advertise in and service the UK gambling market.

The Economic Development Minister for Jersey, Senator Alan Maclean said that the island's achievement of attracting a big company such as Playtech was "a huge stamp of approval for the egaming strategy."

"It demonstrates how we can leverage Jersey's long standing reputation for excellent regulation," said Maclean. "Infrastructure and world class professional services by developing new opportunities from our economy from the lucrative egaming market."

Playtech Eager for Jersey Gambling License

The Chief Executive of the group Mor Weizer, spoke about Playtech's application for a Jersey gambling license.  "We are delighted to be seeking an operating license in Jersey," he said. "We met last year with the Jersey authorities in Israel who convinced us of the merits of the new licensing regime and their commitment to the sector."

"With many of our existing licensees having operations in the Channel Islands, it makes good sense for us to seek a license in Jersey to support our customers from a regulated jurisdiction with first class infrastructure," he added.

Jersey is Not Part of the European Union

Despite its close proximity to the European continent, being just off the coast of Normandy, France, Jersey is not a part of the European Union, which explains its struggle to be added n the UK gambling whitelist.

Jersey is a self governing parliamentary democracy and is the largest of the Channel Islands.  Although not officially part of the UK either, the island does enjoy defense by the United Kingdom's armed forces in times of threats or war.

By attracting groups such as Playtech, Jersey is hoping to establish itself as a major egambling jurisdiction.