In April 2024, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a landmark decree setting the stage for the legalization of online gambling, betting, and lotteries in Uzbekistan. This reform marks the end of a 17-year ban and introduces a clear legal framework designed to regulate and modernize the iGaming industry.
Why Now? A Push for Regulation
Until recently, all forms of gambling were strictly prohibited in Uzbekistan. This created a thriving underground market and caused a significant outflow of money to foreign operators. With the new law, the government aims to protect citizens, limit gambling addiction, and retain capital within the national economy.
Licensing Framework Begins in 2025
According to a Cabinet of Ministers resolution issued on December 6, 2024, the licensing of online gambling, betting, and lotteries will begin on January 1, 2025. The regulatory body responsible will be the National Agency for Perspective Projects (NAPP).
- Licenses will be valid for five years.
- The cost of a new license is 18.75 million Uzbek soums (approx. $1,500).
- Amendments to an existing license will require a fee of 9.375 million soums (approx. $730).
Capital Requirements for Operators
To ensure financial stability, minimum capital requirements have been established:
- Online gambling and betting:
- Minimum charter capital: 56.25 billion soums (~$4.4 million)
- Reserve fund: 28.125 billion soums (~$2.2 million)
- Lotteries:
- Minimum charter capital: 20.625 billion soums (~$1.6 million)
- Reserve fund: 15 billion soums (~$1.2 million)
Additionally, at least 50% of revenues from traditional lotteries, and 75% from electronic lotteries, must be allocated to the prize pool.
Who Can Play? Who Can’t?
Participation will only be legal through licensed platforms, using verified electronic transactions. A national player registry will monitor betting activity, apply deposit limits, and prevent underage gambling.
- Individuals under 18 are prohibited from participation.
- Additional restrictions will apply based on health, income source, or legal status.
- Payments from minors’ bank accounts or cards are strictly forbidden.
What’s Banned?
Despite the liberalization, several prohibitions remain:
- No physical gambling halls or casinos (except lottery ticket outlets).
- No betting on domestic events or youth sports (except international competitions).
- No use of unlicensed foreign platforms targeting Uzbek players.
The NAPP will actively monitor compliance and can fine foreign operators who breach the rules, retaining 50% of the penalties.
Regulatory Safeguards and Ownership Restrictions
Ownership of gambling licenses is restricted to individuals and entities with no record of financial or criminal misconduct. There are also restrictions on offshore ownership, and management roles require prior approval.
The aim is clear: a clean, regulated market that can foster growth without encouraging criminal or unethical behavior.
Economic Promise vs. Social Risks
Legalizing gambling could generate new jobs, attract foreign investment, and increase state revenue. However, the government is also mindful of the social challenges, including gambling addiction. How well Uzbekistan manages this balance will determine the success of this historic move.
