written and last updated by
Sam Smith at
22 Dec 2021
Journalist, Editorial Department
The Kaliningrad region has resumed the implementation of a progressive project to modernize the "Yantarnaya" gaming zone. This information was shared by the region's governor, Anton Alikhanov, in a recent interview.
He also confirmed previously published reports that local authorities have already developed a plan for organizing and conducting auctions for the right to lease several plots within the gaming zone in 2022. These plots are intended for the construction of gaming facilities.
According to Alikhanov, the management of the zone has recently secured an agreement with new investors who are ready to invest significant funds into the development of local infrastructure.
"Some companies have already expressed interest in the auctions. I should note that the price of certain leased plots has increased by nearly 2000% during the evaluation process. One investor has prior experience with similar projects, having been involved in the construction of the Azov City casino. Here, we plan to build a tent complex, which is relatively straightforward. Following that, we will move on to a more extensive construction phase," the governor revealed.
He emphasized that the budget of the Kaliningrad region is benefiting from the operations of one casino and a slot machine hall in the "Yantarnaya" gaming zone.
"Currently, only the SOBRANIE casino and the Magic Crystal club are fully operational, but they are making a significant contribution to the local treasury. Over the past 11 months, the regional Ministry of Finance has reported tax revenues of 120 million rubles from the gaming industry. Additionally, the budget is bolstered by land lease payments, amounting to around 35 million rubles over six months. I am confident that these figures will continue to grow in the future," he stated.
It is worth noting that the active phase of development for the "Yantarnaya" gaming zone was initially set to begin in 2021, but was postponed due to financial difficulties and the COVID-19 pandemic.
As a reminder, in 2022, five large plots of land are planned to be allocated for casinos within the "Yantarnaya" gaming zone.