The Central Asian Republic of Uzbekistan has confirmed its regulatory framework for online gambling and lotteries. The new regulations, approved by the Cabinet of Ministers on December 6th, take effect from January 1st, 2025.
The primary licensing authority will be the National Agency for Prospective Projects (NAPP) and will issue five-year licences for online gambling, betting and lottery operators. NAPP will also oversee compliance, being empowered to impose fines on non-compliant operators, including foreign entities offering services to Uzbek residents.
Online gambling and betting platforms must maintain an authorised capital of UZS56.25bn (Uzbek Sum), equivalent to US$4.4m, and a reserve fund of UZS28.125bn ($2.2m).
A number of mandatory requirements will be in place and enforced, including use by operators of Uzbekistan’s national internet domain, certification of all gaming software and comprehensive player verification processes. A unified register of bets and players will be maintained by the government, in order to monitor and manage gambling activities.
In terms of land-based gaming, the new regulations prohibit physical gambling venues, including casinos and slot halls, with the exception of those locations selling state lottery tickets.
Gambling will remain prohibited for individuals under the age of 18, plus several other groups, and betting bans will be imposed on activities such as local events and youth sports.
