written and last updated by
Sam Smith at
25 Jan 2022
Journalist, Editorial Department
The development of the gambling industry in Ukraine is progressing as planned, according to local experts in the entertainment sector. Ivan Rudy, the head of the Commission for the Regulation of Gambling and Lotteries (KRAIL), reported that the issuance of licenses to industry operators has contributed 1.58 billion hryvnias to the national budget. However, the overall impact of legalizing this sector of the economy has proven to be significantly greater.
To date, the regulator has issued more than 4,000 licenses: eight to land-based companies, 13 to online casinos, while the remaining permits were granted for the operation of specialized equipment, including card tables, roulette wheels, gaming machines, and statistical counting devices.
Rudy emphasized that in 2022, the Ukrainian treasury is expected to reap even greater benefits from the launch of gambling activities: "Our task now is to enhance the market and implement best practices. Additionally, it is crucial to continue the extensive fight against illegal establishments, including online casinos. This situation significantly undermines the potential of the local jurisdiction and substantially reduces budget revenues."
The success of legalizing the gambling business in Ukraine is also affirmed by Anton Kuchukhidze, head of the All-Ukrainian Gambling Association: "To achieve a successful launch, we were required to complete 100 steps. The market accomplished 99, providing an incredible boost. In fact, we managed to fulfill all obligations except for one—we were unable to secure the passage of bill 2713-d. This legislation is essential for the business to address remaining issues related to tax regulation."
Rudy further noted that the market has not met its projected revenue targets due to shortcomings on the part of the members of the Verkhovna Rada, who have ignored the consideration of the aforementioned bill for several months. He added that bill 2713-d would help to formalize the gambling entertainment market.
It is worth mentioning that in 2023, Ukraine will see the emergence of a unique resort city featuring a casino.