The Government of Kazakhstan has unveiled an ambitious expansion of its gaming sector, designating three new casino zones exclusively for foreign gamblers in East Kazakhstan, Almaty City, and Zhetysu Oblast.
This strategic initiative by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports aims to double the annual number of international gaming tourists to over 200,000 visitors.
Economic Windfall and Job Creation
The Government of Kazakhstan projects significant economic dividends from this regional expansion:
- Job Creation: The new zones are expected to create approximately 5,000 local jobs. Each new casino will employ about 500 residents in roles ranging from hospitality to professional gaming.
- Tax Revenue: Authorities estimate annual tax contributions between 2 and 4 billion Tenge (US4milliontoUS8 million) per casino. These funds are earmarked for critical infrastructure, including road development and tourism promotion.
Strategic Regional Development
By decentralizing gaming from existing hubs like Kapchigay and Borovoye, Kazakhstan intends to stimulate regional growth. Each chosen region offers unique complementary attractions:
- East Kazakhstan: Combines high-stakes gaming with extreme outdoor activities and nature.
- Almaty City: Offers a mix of urban vitality and cultural heritage.
- Zhetysu Oblast: Focuses on eco-tourism, featuring pristine lakes and national parks.
Preserving the Social Fabric
A cornerstone of this plan is the foreign-only restriction. By barring local residents from these zones, the government aims to reap economic benefits while shielding the domestic population from potential social downsides. This “restricted play” model is designed to position Kazakhstan as a premier Central Asian destination for luxury, high-stakes entertainment without impacting local social stability.
