Historic merger set to change racing and gaming industries

After more than a decade of talk and planning, Jamaica's racing and gaming industries are finally on the brink of a historic transformation. Ryan Reid, chairman of the merger committee, confirmed on Power Play, Power 106, that the long-discussed unification of the Jamaica Racing Commission (JRC), the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Commission (BJLC), and the Casino Gaming Commission (CGC) is officially under way.

"The focus now is less talking, more doing," Reid told listeners. "We're committed to bringing governance and regulation under one umbrella, and ensuring the industry benefits from the considerable savings that will come from merging these entities."

Reid, who replaced Clovis Metcalfe after eight years at the helm, chairs both the BJLC and CGC and brings a wealth of experience in governance and regulatory oversight. His appointment by Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Fayval Williams, comes at a pivotal moment for Jamaica's racing and gaming sectors, which have long operated under fragmented oversight.

CONSOLIDATING RESOURCES

The merger is aimed at streamlining operations, enhancing governance, and securing the long-term sustainability of the industry, Reid explained. By consolidating resources and eliminating duplicative functions, the merged entity is expected to generate significant cost savings, which can then be reinvested in racing infrastructure, development programmes, and broader stakeholder support.

"Our task is to strengthen the commission further while ensuring all stakeholders feel included in the process," Reid said. "This is about creating a platform for inclusion, growth, and modernisation. Gone are the days of decisions handed down without input from those on the ground."

Over the coming weeks, the merger committee will engage government bodies, racing associations, operators and private stakeholders to map out a smooth transition.

While no specific timeline has been announced, Reid emphasised that the committee is working "assiduously and squarely" to get the process completed as quickly as possible.

REBRANDING

The JRC has long been credited with keeping the industry together, but Reid believes the merger represents a chance to modernise Jamaica's racing brand and broaden participation. He highlighted plans to rebrand locally-bred horses as "Jamaican-bred horses", reflecting the country's growing international competitiveness and aspirational image.

Stakeholders can also expect a renewed focus on high-profile sponsorships and headlining races, aimed at revitalising engagement and boosting the industry's visibility.

"Every practitioner, from jockeys to trainers, has their own concerns," Reid said. "We intend to listen, and our mandate is to be inclusive and responsive."

For many, the merger signals the beginning of a new era for Jamaican racing and gaming - a unified, efficient, and future-focused industry capable of meeting regional and international standards while maximising economic and social benefits locally.