Starting January 2025, Uzbekistan will permit betting activities.

Starting January 1, 2025, Uzbekistan will permit the organization of online games based on risk, as well as betting activities. This initiative is outlined in the Cabinet of Ministers' resolution regarding the implementation of the Presidential Decree of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated April 19, 2024, No. UP-68, which addresses measures for enhancing the regulation of lotteries and risk-based games, effective December 6, 2024.

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The resolution approves the licensing requirements and conditions for the specified types of activities, as well as activities related to the organization of lotteries, restrictions on conducting these activities, and the types and amounts of payments for their organization.

It is noted that only a legal entity that is a resident of Uzbekistan can obtain a license. Additionally, it must have an electronic platform on servers located within the republic.

It is stipulated that the minimum charter capital for organizers of risk-based games and online betting activities must be at least 150,000 BRV, while for lottery organizers, it must be no less than 55,000 BRV.

Moreover, organizers of risk-based games and betting companies are required to maintain a reserve fund in a separate account with the licensing authority at a commercial bank in the Republic of Uzbekistan, amounting to 75,000 BRV, while lottery organizers must hold 40,000 BRV.

The document outlines relevant prohibitions and restrictions. For instance, payments to individuals under the age of 18 are prohibited, as well as the establishment of stationary or mobile gaming halls, casinos, slot machine halls, or other gaming establishments intended for conducting risk-based games directly associated with player participation, except for points of sale for lottery tickets.

Furthermore, it is forbidden to accept bets on events occurring in Uzbekistan and involving citizens of the republic (sports games and competitions, political processes, contests, and others), with the exception of international-level sports games and events held with spectators, ensuring appropriate preparation, control, and officiating based on the rules of international federations, as well as youth sports competitions.

The document, published in the National Database of Legislation and effective from December 12, 2024, notes that these requirements will come into force after the necessary amendments and additions are made to the Law "On Licensing, Permissive and Notification Procedures."