written and last updated by
Sam Smith at
24 Feb 2022
Journalist, Editorial Department
Irakli Garibashvili, the Prime Minister of Georgia, announced that starting March 1, all advertising for gambling will be banned in the country. Additionally, citizens under the age of 25 will no longer be able to access online casinos, with this restriction also taking effect on March 1, 2022.
The Prime Minister described the issue of gambling as one of the most pressing and significant challenges facing Georgian society. He noted that citizens spend approximately 1.5 billion lari (around $476 million or €426 million) annually on online casinos, with a significant portion of active users being young people and minors.
Garibashvili also emphasized that the government plans to increase taxes on online casinos overall. According to the Prime Minister, the revenue generated will be directed towards the development of priority sectors, including sports, education at all levels, and the creation of new jobs across various areas of the economy.
Discussing the new restrictions, Irakli Garibashvili mentioned that many individuals have become entangled in these harmful games. He added that even a modest reduction in the number of online casino enthusiasts would provide significant relief.
Will the bans improve the situation for problem gamblers in Georgia?
Garibashvili also shared details of his discussions with the government, the Ministry of Economy, and the parliamentary majority regarding the announced restrictions on advertising for online casinos and betting shops. The state will fully support initiatives aimed at preventing minors and other vulnerable members of society from being drawn into gambling.
Representatives of the operating companies in the country have yet to comment on the Georgian government's decision. Previously, authorities had considered implementing certain restrictions on access to gambling websites for individuals receiving social assistance.
It is worth noting that an open tender for casino licenses in Macau may begin in the second half of 2022.
