Georgia Introduces New Gambling Laws

The government of Georgia has introduced new gambling laws that will shape the conduct and future of internet gambling in the state.

The Prime Minister has cited gambling-related harm and unchecked gambling operations leading to loss of tax money as the main reasons the government should have a tighter grip on the online casino industry.

To address the tax problem, the new bill drafted by the minister of finance will see gross gaming revenue taxed at 10%, while winnings will be subject to a 2% tax and be seen as part of a consumer’s income. The iGaming market in the jurisdiction would also be highly affected by a 65% and 70% tax increase.

The new legislation also seeks to reduce the number of gambling advertisements in public space, which may soon be followed by total prohibition similar to the model adopted in Spain and Italy.

When the legislation gets implemented, operators will have to reduce or stop running their advertisements and marketing campaigns on the television or Georgian social media spaces.

The ban will also include billboards, posters, and advertising in physical areas. However, operators will still be able to sponsor companies or organizations and display their logos.

The bill will also limit the minimum gambling age to 25+, meaning that anyone under 25 years would not be allowed to gamble at both physical and online gambling platforms. It would also be illegal for any operator to offer services to any person under the stipulated age.