Samoa is an island country situated in the southern Pacific Ocean in the western part of the Samoa Islands chain. The country has only one city and that is the capital city of the country which is Apia. It was de-jure independent since January 1, 1962. It is one of the Commonwealth countries. This guide will be your go-to source for all the information when it comes to the top betting sites in Samoa, the legal status of gambling in the country, and the most followed sports betting and online betting platforms in the country.
Table of Contents
Summary of Key Events
Short Review of the Regulation of Gambling in Samoa
Samoa has gone a long way in the aspect of gambling and has been through a lot as the years progress. The development of gambling laws started in the year 2000 when Samoa sought to regulate gambling activities to make them as credible as possible and at the same time generate income for the country.
Key Milestones:
- 1978: National Lotteries Act
- 2002: Creation of Horse race betting industry.
- 2010: Casino, Gambling and Betting Prevention Act
- 2015: An act to amend the casino and gambling control act
- 2016: Bill on Regulation of Gaming Activities
Analysis of Casino and Gambling Control Act of 2010
The main law regulating gambling in Samoa is The Casino and Gambling Control Act of 2010. This act was brought in with the aim of developing the tourism industry and enhance the standard of living of the Samoans.
Key Provisions:
- This act provided for the creation of the Gambling Control Authority (GCA).
- The regulation of the gaming properties
- This is the barring of the entry of the casinos to the foreign people only.
Functions of Gambling Control Authority (GCA)
The GCA is the government body that is in charge of all gambling activities in Samoa and its regulation. Some of the responsibilities which are bestowed on this commission include; issuing of licenses, enforcement of laws on gambling and encouraging people to gamble responsibly.
Functions of the GCA:
- The activities include issuing of licenses to qualified operators
- To this end, the activities are regulated in order to prevent fraud and cheating in gambling.
- Promoting the cause of responsible gambling strategies
Betting Options that are Allowed and Those that are Not in Samoa
Although Samoa has swiftly followed in the regulation of gambling, there are some types of bets that are still prohibited. It is for this reason that anyone aiming to place legal bets in the country must understand these restrictions.
- Prohibited Bets:
- Gambling on line without the permission of a gambling authority.
- People from the locality gambling in casinos
- Permitted Bets:
- The gambling facilities for the holders of foreign passports.
- Horse race betting
- National lotteries
Licensing and Fees of Betting Sites in Samoa
To get a gambling license in Samoa certain procedures have to be followed and they are very strict. The GCA makes sure that only the right people are given operating licenses to make sure the gambling industry is safe.
- License Types and Fees:
- Casino license fee
- Annual renewal fee
- Charges that can be made for horse race betting and lotteries
Gambling Taxes in Samoa
The gambling operators in Samoa are charged with several taxes to make sure that the industry Generosity towards the economy of the country. On the same note, the players get to keep their winnings without the intervention of the tax authorities.
- Tax Structure:
- Certain charges that are paid for the use of licenses in casinos
- Nonprofit bingo tax (2% of the amount won by the jackpot).
- There is no personal income tax on gambling winnings in the Samoa of America.
Best Online Betting Sites in Samoa
To the sports betting enthusiasts, there are quite a number of recognized betting sites in Samoa. These sites have different betting options, good odds, and easy to use interfaces for the clients.
Popular Betting Sites:
Up To £130 + £5 Free Bets
Up To £120 + £30 Free Bets
Up to £122
A significant Event in Samoan Sporting History
As a Polynesian nation, Samoans love their sports and there are often key events that most of the nation would be watching. These events are entertaining and also present a platform for the betting lovers.
Notable Events:
- Pacific Nations Cup: Competition that will display Samoan talents in the rugby game
- Samoa National Lotto: One of the well known lottery events
- Samoa Race Track: Organises major horse races
Celebrating Samoan Sports Stars
Samoa has contributed to the Pacific region some of the most famous athletes in the region. These sports stars are a pride to the nation and are role models that people look up to.
Famous Athletes:
- Brian Lima: The famous rugby player that has the nickname “The Chiropractor”.
- David Tua: The famous fighter of the heavyweight category
- Troy Polamalu: The NFL player with several pro bowl participation.
Looking at the Laws on Gambling in Neighboring Countries
Knowledge on the gambling laws of the neighboring countries can be of great benefit to the bettors in Samoa. Below are the brief gambling laws of the three neighboring countries:
Fiji:
- Gambling is heavily regulated
- No casinos allowed
Tonga:
- Presently, there are no laws to govern gambling in the country.
- Restricted access to the online betting
American Samoa:
- Strict regulations
- Limited gambling options
Conclusion
The world of sports betting in Samoa is ever growing and there are always possibilities for everyone to explore. It is possible to improve your betting experience by first knowing the legal betting systems in the locality, choosing only the right betting sites and knowing the schedule for major sporting events.
FAQ the Betting Sites in Samoa
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