Kazakhstan approves new casino zones
The new legislation on Kazakh casino zones restricts access to foreign nationals.
Kazakhstan.- The government of Kazakhstan has approved the creation of new gambling zones where developers may apply to open casinos targeting international visitors. According to the country’s Qazinform News Agency, amendments signed off by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev would allow the establishment of land-based casinos in four regions of the country.
The changes update the Law On Gambling Business, designating the following new areas where casinos and other gambling facilities may operate:
- Mangistau region, along the Caspian Sea coast
- Panfilov district and Lake Alakol in the Zhetysu region
- Talgar district in the Almaty region
- Markakol and Zaisan districts in East Kazakhstan region
The legislation prohibits gambling establishments from being located in protected natural reserves, on land of historical or cultural importance, or in areas reserved for defense and national security. Access rules are also clarified in the new amendments, restricting entry to foreign nationals, stateless persons, and individuals connected to gambling operations in an official capacity.
Currently, Kazakhstan permits land-based casinos in only two zones: the city of Konaev in the Almaty region and the Shchuchinsk-Borovoye resort area in Akmola region. Venues in these areas may cater to both domestic and foreign players.
The move comes after plans emerged to relegalise casinos in Azerbaijan on the other side of the Caspian Sea, reversinsg a ban introduced in the South Caucasus nation over 25 years ago. The proposed legislation contained in articles 22.0.42 and 23.2-1 of the Law on State Fees would specifically allow casinos on artificial islands in the Caspian Sea.
