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This article was updated on April 22, 2026.
In Central Asia, Uzbekistan stands out for having a deep, historical heritage and rich cultural flavour that it manifests through its food and hospitality. Recently, Uzbekistan has taken significant steps to modernize its economy, infrastructure, and government. Uzbekistan has also historically taken a very strict position against gambling; therefore, at this point, Uzbekistan is in a major transitional phase of its gambling laws. They are now moving from a complete prohibition of all forms of gambling in the past to a fully regulated legal gambling industry.
Does Uzbekistan have its own gambling license?
Yes, Uzbekistan has introduced a licensing system. In April 2024, the president of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, signed a decree to provide the legal framework for online gambling, including online gambling, bookmaking, and lotteries, beginning 1 January 2025. Before the introduction of this law, there were no permitted forms of gambling in Uzbekistan, and it had the most severe gambling prohibition in all of Central Asia. Operators of online gambling and bookmaking will be granted a Nevada-style “5-year” license; however, they will be subject to very strict financial guidelines, including, but not limited to, minimum authorized capital requirements of approximately €3.9 million in the case of online sportsbooks, and required reserve accounts to guarantee the payment of winnings to players.
Who regulates gambling laws in Uzbekistan?
In Uzbekistan, the regulation of gambling is now overseen by the National Agency for Perspective Projects (NAPP). This agency holds authority for the issuance of licenses as well as compliance and oversight of gambling activities while adhering to the legal framework. The enforcement of laws related to unlicensed and illegal entities continues through the Ministry of Internal Affairs, but NAPP will be the regulatory body responsible for oversight within the regulated gambling market.
To improve the integrity of the regulated gambling market, the government of Uzbekistan developed a Unified State Register of Bets and Players (USRBP), which is designed to track all gambling transactions, wagers, and winnings and will perform these functions using real-time data to enhance the transparency of the sector and combat money laundering practices.
Overview of Uzbekistan’s gambling laws
Uzbekistan’s gambling laws have evolved from being some of the most repressive to a structured, “compliance-first” regulated environment. The main features of Uzbekistan’s current gambling legislation include:
- Legalization of Online Gaming: As of 2025, online gambling and bookmaking activities are permitted for licensed operators. Traditional land-based casinos, however, generally remain restricted or subject to specific investment project rules.
- Regulated Lotteries: Both state and private lotteries are now governed under the new licensing framework managed by the NAPP.
- Taxation Framework: A 4% turnover tax is applied to licensed organizers, calculated based on total income after deducting paid winnings and refunded stakes.
- Player Protections: The law includes a “Unified State Register” to monitor player activity, enforce monthly wagering limits, and provide a list of prohibited participants (such as those with gambling addictions or civil servants).
- Legal Age: Participation in any form of licensed gambling, including online betting and lotteries, is strictly limited to individuals who are at least 18 years old.
Legal precedents regarding gambling in Uzbekistan
The government’s approach to legalizing gambling and other forms of betting has been complemented by severe penalties for those who engage in illegal or unlicensed activity. The most recent amendments to the Penal Code were enacted on January 1, 2025, and provide for the confiscation of funds from illegal gambling as well as blocking any foreign legal entity offering services to Uzbeks without a local license. In addition, the New Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Gambling and Betting (the “New Law”) provides that the regional courts and all NAPPs will have a “zero tolerance” policy towards grey market operators. Businesses found to have committed an anti-money laundering violation or to have improperly used personal information can be fined up to fifteen thousand BRV.
The regulatory environment for gambling and other forms of betting continues to be influenced by cultural and religious values. Legalization is meant to help the government capture tax dollars and prevent capital flight; however, the regulations will be extremely strict in order to preserve the moral and social values of the Muslim majority that resides in Uzbekistan.
Law enforcement regarding gambling in Uzbekistan
Law enforcement remains highly active, but the focus has shifted toward protecting the legal market. The NAPP and the Ministry of Internal Affairs work together to block access to unlicensed international gambling websites. Financial institutions are mandated to block transactions linked to offshore platforms that do not appear in the state register. Even with the legal market open, the government continues to refine its policing of the internet to ensure citizens only use domestic, regulated platforms.
Potential changes to gambling regulations
As of 2026, the regulatory framework is in its early stages of full implementation. While the laws were officially changed in 2024 and 2025, the NAPP has been methodical in issuing the first wave of licenses to ensure that all technical safeguards—like the Unified State Register—are fully operational. Future discussions may focus on the potential for land-based “tourist-only” casino zones, similar to those in neighboring countries, to further boost the tourism sector, though no official decree has been signed for such a move yet.
Where can I find experts on Uzbekistan’s gambling laws?
Detailed information and consultative services regarding the new licensing regime should be sought from law firms with specific expertise in the NAPP’s regulatory requirements. Firms like Centil Law and GRATA International remain key players in the region and have adapted their services to help international operators navigate the complex capitalization and technical requirements of the new Uzbek gambling market.
All in all
The landscape in Uzbekistan has shifted from a complete ban to a highly controlled, regulated market. The government’s priority is to formalize economic activity, strengthen AML (Anti-Money Laundering) controls, and protect citizens from the risks of the underground market. While Uzbekistan has opened its doors to iGaming and sports betting, it remains one of the most strictly monitored environments in the world, prioritizing state oversight and player protection over rapid market expansion.
