Kazakhstan plans to establish casinos for foreign visitors.
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports notes that the specific locations are still
being determined, but priority is given to the Almaty, Mangystau, and Zhetisu
regions. These regions are already popular tourist destinations in Kazakhstan.
The ministry is currently considering potential investors, including Chinese,
European, and Russian companies. Special incentives will be offered, such as
reduced fees for gaming tables and machines, as well as exemptions from
individual income tax for players. Experts, drawing on international
experience, say that casinos and gaming zones contribute to the development of
tourism, particularly by attracting affluent foreign travelers who are willing
to spend significant sums and invest in the country’s economy.
«This opportunity is being considered as part of tourism
development, exclusively for foreigners. Kazakh citizens will not be allowed to
participate. Casinos that violate this rule will face penalties, including
license revocation. Local investors are also needed, as foreigners ask for some
local partner to share the risks. We will work on identifying and connecting
them. This provision has been developed, and we are currently discussing it
with government agencies. If it receives support, we will submit it to
Parliament,» said Adilet Turganbayev, Acting Chairman of the Committee for
Regulation of Gambling Business and Lottery.

