Online Gaming and Lotteries Legalized in Uzbekistan starting from January 2025

The regulated online gambling and lottery market is about to be launched in Uzbekistan, with the new law coming into force on 1 January 2025. This has been an important milestone in the country’s approach to digital gaming activities. The regulations, which the Cabinet approved of Ministers on 6 December 2024, will create a detailed framework to regulate this sector.

The move aims to update the country’s gambling industry while protecting its citizens with strict regulation and compliance. For this purpose, the National Agency for Prospective Projects, NAPP, was appointed as the main regulating body of the industry, which will grant licenses to operators and ensure compliance with the law.Uzbekistan Legalizes Online Gaming and Lotteries | SpicyCasinos - Hottest Bonuses 2025

Licensing and Financial Requirements

The new law provides that NAPP shall grant licenses to operators of online gambling, betting, and lotteries for five years. Licenses for these activities include heavy financial requirements to maintain stability and reliability in the sector. An online gambling and betting operator must have an authorized capital of 56.25 billion ($4.4 million) and a reserve fund of 28.125 billion. In the case of lotteries, while important, the demands are less intense, though significant to the government’s seriousness with its wishes for a robust and safe industry.Uzbekistan Legalizes Online Gaming and Lotteries | SpicyCasinos - Hottest Bonuses 2025

Operating Standards and Compliance

Operators will have to match high standards to retain their licenses, including certification of gaming software, the compulsory use of Uzbekistan’s national internet domain, and extensive verification procedures for players’ identities. To ensure transparency and control, the government will create a single Unified State Register of Bets and Players to log all bets in the country.

There shall be no participation by persons below the age of 18 years, and even then, with strings attached. The government shall not allow betting on local events and youth sports in the public’s interest and to maintain ethics in the trade.

Ban on Physical Gambling Venues

Online gambling and lotteries will become legal, but casinos and slot machine halls remain prohibited. However, physical lottery tickets can be sold at various locations. This decision mirrors the government’s cautious approach, which balances the benefits of online gaming with the need to prevent possible social harm linked to physical gambling establishments.

NAPP will provide supervision, along with the other governmental bodies of the country, like the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Central Bank, and the Tax Committee, which will provide a multi-layer approach to control and enforcement. The bill imposes sanctions and fines on operators who violate the rules, including foreign operators providing services to residents without authorization.

To prepare for the regulatory framework’s implementation, NAPP must finalize all related documents and establish effective monitoring mechanisms by 1 January 2025.

The start of a new Era for Uzbekistan’sUzbekistan’s Gaming Sector

The legal framework for online gambling and lotteries aims to boost economic benefits by increasing government revenues and creating more jobs. Simultaneously, the strict regulatory framework attempts to protect consumers and ensure that illegal activities do not arise.

This landmark decision shows how Uzbekistan is thinking about economic development while taking steps to minimize the risks associated with gambling.

We want to remind you that gambling can be addictive. If you notice any signs of gambling addiction, please seek help at gambleaware.com. For more support and information, visit our Responsible Gambling section.

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