Kazakhstan moves to expand regulated casino development

Kazakhstan is preparing to broaden its regulated gambling landscape after lawmakers approved amendments allowing the creation of additional casino zones across several regions. The move marks a significant expansion of the country’s tightly controlled casino framework, which currently limits operations to Borovoe in the Akmola region and Qonaev in the Almaty region.

Under the new legislation, casinos may also be established along the Caspian Sea coast in the Mangystau region, at Lake Alakol in the Panfilov district, and in selected areas of the Zhetysu, Almaty, and East Kazakhstan regions. The bill has passed its second reading in the Mazhilis, clearing a key procedural hurdle before enactment.

The proposed model divides responsibilities between national and regional authorities. While the central government will define the boundaries of new gambling zones, regional administrations will select specific land plots. Officials say this decentralised approach is intended to ensure casino developments align with local infrastructure, transport access, and broader tourism strategies.

The Ministry of Tourism and Sport has linked the expansion to rising tourism activity and investment. Between January and October 2025, investment in the tourism sector rose by more than 38 percent year on year, while foreign visitor numbers also increased. Authorities estimate that new casinos could generate between $4 million and $6 million in annual tax revenue and create around 500 jobs, without reducing the tax burden on operators.

Despite the economic rationale, the expansion has prompted debate due to recent measures aimed at tackling gambling addiction. Government officials argue that strict zoning, regulation, and enforcement will mitigate risks, adding that surveys show limited local opposition. The authorities also expect foreign visitors to form the primary customer base, particularly in resort and border regions.