Online gambling to be restricted in Georgia
As is known, gambling is allowed in Georgia without serious restrictions. Moreover, online casinos are not prohibited here, as in many jurisdictions where such forms of gambling are not welcomed. However, the other day, the entire gambling community of the country was shocked by the statement of the Prime Minister, who said that the government plans to limit the work of virtual gambling establishments operating in the country.
At the latest government meeting, proposals for serious innovations emerged, which assume that almost a million citizens of the country will not be able to have fun in online casinos, and club operators will be limited in their ability to advertise their business. The new government project assumes that a fairly large category of Georgian residents will be prohibited from playing in online casinos. Prime Minister of the country Irakli Garibashvili informed the public that a special database will soon be created, which will include persons to whom the ban will apply.
First of all, restrictions on playing in virtual clubs will affect low-income citizens who receive benefits, subsidies, etc. from the state. In addition, this database will include all officials working in the civil service, gambling addicts reported by family members and players who wish to establish self-restrictions on playing in casinos. According to very rough estimates, this list will include at least one million people.
In addition, other changes are expected in the gambling industry of Georgia. Very soon, the authorities will limit advertising and promotions of casino operators. Currently, they are carried out on TV, are available on numerous websites on the Internet and are even posted on outdoor advertising boards. Only advertising of sports competitions will remain permitted. Also, stricter age restrictions will soon appear. Gambling in casinos will be allowed from the age of 25. In addition, it is planned to raise taxes for this type of business by 65-70%.
