Antigua Strengthens Internet Gaming, E-Commerce Legislation

by Amanda Banks, Tax-News.com, London

16 October 2001

Talks led by Sir Ronald Sanders, Antigua's & Barbuda's senior Ambassador and lead negotiator on international financial services, took place last month to discuss ways of enhancing e-commerce with particular focus on Internet gaming on the Islands.

Sir Ronald chaired the meetings between a government team and Internet gaming operators with the idea of settling on an agreed strategy that continues to ensure the industry is well-regulated in the fight against global money laundering and other financial crimes.

The Ambassador said: 'Antigua is a low tax jurisdiction and we want to remain so. We want to provide a hospitable and predictable environment for e-commerce, including Internet Gaming, that is well regulated particularly to prevent money laundering. But, at the same time, we want investors in e-commerce to operate in an environment that allows them to make a healthy profit while providing jobs for our people.'

The talks lasted three days during which time a plan was agreed to develop a telecommunications infrastructure to enhance e-commerce, as well as a framework for the relationship between the Government's independent regulatory, tax and law enforcement agencies.

In addition, a memorandum was drawn up documenting the agreement between the government and the industry. 'The e-commerce industry in Antigua can now be grown on a predictable basis with everyone understanding the rules', Sir Ronald declared.

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