Stringent Licensing Requirements for Operators
The newly minted regulations impose rigorous financial prerequisites on prospective online casino gambling and betting operators. To secure a five-year licence from NAPP, platforms must demonstrate an authorised capital of 56.25 billion soums (£4.4 million) alongside a reserve fund of 28.125 billion soums. Lottery operators, while facing slightly lower financial thresholds, must also adhere to stringent compliance standards. These measures are designed to weed out unreliable operators and ensure that only financially robust entities can partake in Uzbekistan’s burgeoning online gaming market.
Moreover, all operators are mandated to utilise Uzbekistan’s national internet domain, ensuring that digital activities remain within the country’s regulatory purview. Certification of gaming software is compulsory, adding an extra layer of scrutiny to prevent malpractices. Comprehensive player verification processes are also required, safeguarding against underage gambling and enhancing overall player security. By enforcing these stringent criteria, Uzbekistan aims to cultivate a trustworthy and secure online gaming environment.
Comprehensive Player Protection and Compliance Measures
Central to the new framework is the establishment of a Unified State Register of Bets and Players, a sophisticated system designed to monitor and manage gambling activities meticulously. This registry will play a pivotal role in tracking player behaviour and betting patterns, facilitating the detection of any irregularities or fraudulent activities.
Additionally, the regulations impose strict participation restrictions, prohibiting individuals under 18 and other specified categories from engaging in gambling activities. Betting on local events and youth sports is categorically banned, reflecting Uzbekistan’s commitment to promoting responsible gambling practices.
NAPP will wield considerable authority in overseeing compliance, with the power to levy hefty fines on operators that fail to adhere to the established guidelines. This extends to foreign entities offering services to Uzbek residents, ensuring that international operators are held to the same high standards as domestic ones.
The regulatory body is tasked with finalising all pertinent documents and setting up robust monitoring mechanisms by the onset of 2025. Collaboration with the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Central Bank, and Tax Committee will be essential in maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the regulatory framework.
Prohibition of Physical Gambling Venues
In a move that underscores its focus on digital transformation, the Uzbek government has prohibited the establishment of physical gambling venues, such as casinos or slot machine halls, with the sole exception of locations selling lottery tickets.
This ban is intended to concentrate regulatory efforts on the online sector, where the majority of gambling activities are anticipated to occur. By eliminating physical venues, Uzbekistan aims to streamline its regulatory oversight and reduce the potential for illegal gambling operations to flourish.
This strategic decision also aligns with the broader objectives of enhancing public safety and curbing gambling-related issues. Physical venues often present higher risks for problem gambling and associated social harms, making their prohibition a prudent measure.
The emphasis on online platforms allows for more precise regulation and monitoring, ensuring that operators comply with all legal and ethical standards. As Uzbekistan prepares to embrace this new era of digital gaming, the country sets a precedent for other nations looking to regulate and safeguard their online gambling markets effectively.