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The Free Trade & Processing Act (1994)

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The Free Trade & Processing Act (1994) was a landmark piece of legislation passed by the Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda, recognized as the world's first law to grant licenses for companies operating online casinos. This act is a pivotal moment in the history of igaming, establishing the legal precedent for the industry's future development.

Origins of Online Gaming

Before the passage of this act, online gambling was largely a theoretical concept. The 1994 Free Trade & Processing Act provided the essential legal framework necessary for the practical establishment of internet-based casinos, effectively kickstarting the online casino origins.

Key Pillars of Early iGaming Development

  • Legitimacy: The Act provided government backing, lending credibility and a legal foundation to early online gambling operations.
  • Infrastructure: It enabled servers to be hosted in Antigua and Barbuda, offering a tax-friendly and regulated environment for businesses seeking an Antigua gambling license.
  • First Movers: This legislative foundation paved the way for pioneering software companies like Microgaming and CryptoLogic to launch their initial online casino platforms shortly after its enactment.

This foundational legislation transformed a speculative concept into a tangible industry, laying down the essential legal groundwork that shaped the early days of online gambling and influenced regulatory approaches globally.

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