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Three new casino zones are to be made available to foreign gamblers in the following regions: East Kazakhstan, Almaty City, and Zhetysu Oblast; these regions will have new casino zones primarily for foreign gamblers. Kazakhstan’s government estimates that new casinos will create about 5,000 local jobs and generate between 2 and 4 billion Tenge, about US$4 to US$8 million, in annual tax revenue. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports will also enhance Kapchigay and the Borovoye Resort Area with existing casinos and develop new casino operations in those locations. Additionally, the Ministry will highlight the tremendous natural resources and cultural heritage of Kazakhstan as a premier gaming destination for high-stakes gaming activities in Central Asia. This plan is expected to double the total number of foreign gamblers visiting Kazakhstan.
Why These Regions for New Casinos
The chosen areas offer ready appeal that pairs well with gaming. Kazakhstan’s East region has an extreme environment with great opportunities for outdoor activities that allow gamers to play video games and hike or enjoy nature simultaneously. The former capital of Almaty is a large city that offers a combination of vitality, excitement, and culture that Almaty provides. Additionally, the rich history and dramatic landscape of Mangistau offer gamers a gaming experience that combines both traditional and modern gaming experiences. Zhetysu has the additional benefit of gorgeous parks and pristine lakes, offering an opportunity to take breaks from gaming can help revitalize players between gaming sessions. Kazakhstan’s gaming area development throughout the country reduces the overall gaming activity concentration at Kapchagay and Borovoye, helping stimulate their regional economies.
Job Opportunities and Tax Windfall Anticipated
Each of the new casinos will provide employment for about 500 people in the tourism sector, including gaming dealers and hotel workers, providing a steady livelihood for citizens in new tourism centers. The possible tax revenue of 2-4 billion tenge annually for every casino would provide revenue for the government for the development of infrastructure, such as roads, and for the promotion of tourism. This plan will allow Kazakhstan to diversify its economy by using the gaming industry to attract large numbers of foreign tourists, who will spend money on places to stay, eat, and be entertained. Keeping zones foreign-only shields residents from social downsides, letting the focus stay on economic perks without local play.
Gaming Ties into Bigger Tourism Push
Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Tourism views gaming as a valuable component of a larger tourism initiative, including festivals, adventure travel, and crafts. The development of hotels and venues around casinos will also lead to the development of transportation services, shopping, and tours, creating complete packages for tourists. The foreign-only rule encourages safe investment, drawing operators who see steady international traffic. If the number of gamblers approximately doubles to 200,000 plus visitors each year, it would significantly represent an increase in the total number of visitors to Kazakhstan.
Sharing the Winnings Across Regions
Casinos located in different places mean that the benefits of tourism will not be confined to one location. In Almaty, the increased number of visitors will enhance city life, while Zhetysu’s nature will appeal to environmentally conscious gamblers. Mangistau’s cultural heritage will give a special twist to the experience, while East Kazakhstan will provide an adventurous touch. This mix reduces overcrowding at old sites, evening out development.
Long-Term Play for Tourism Growth
The expansion cements Kazakhstan’s spot on global gaming maps, fueling sustainable tourism. Foreign focus, job surges, tax flows set stage for lasting economic lift across far-flung areas.
Source: Travel and Tour World
